Worcester cricket club stalwart visits Lord's as 'special guest'

A mainstay of a Worcester cricket club has enjoyed a trip to the home of the game as a 'special guest.'

The dedication of stalwart Lynne Newell has been recognised as part of the MCC's (Marylebone Cricket Club) Community Cricket Heroes campaign.

She was invited to the England vs Australia One Day International match at Lord's as a special guest of MCC President Mark Nicholas.

Read more: Worcestershire County Cricket Clubs backs NSPCC kids sport campaign

The Worcester resident was handpicked from hundreds of nationwide nominations to be one of 11 Community Cricket Heroes.

This year’s community cricket heroes were chosen by a special panel, including Mr Nicholas.

The campaign, launched in March last year by MCC alongside The Cricketer magazine, aims to recognise individuals who make a significant contribution to grassroots cricket and their community.

She said: "To think that I've been nominated and recognised for my work in cricket and to be rewarded with this privilege has really made it the most amazing day.

"This has been the most overwhelming day, probably in my life, in my cricket career, to be at Lord's and also to see a One Day International - it's just amazing."

Mrs Newell, director of operations at Old Elizabethans CC, has devoted 54 years to the club.

Under her leadership, the club has seen the launch of ladies' and girls' cricket, and the introduction of Kwik Cricket.

In 2013, she began working with disability cricketers, notably those who are visually impaired.

Her efforts have led to a strong partnership with New College Worcester, a specialist school for blind and visually impaired youngsters, resulting in the formation of the Worcestershire Elizabethans team.

Mrs Newell, who trained to become a qualified coach, managed weekly training, arranged transport for players, and dealt with all administration.

Now in her 70s, she has handed over the reins to the Worcestershire Cricket Foundation but remains passionate about the sport.

She said: "The work I've done in cricket, I've never done it with the thought of being recognised, having married a cricketer and knowing nothing about it, cricket has become one of the biggest parts of my life and a true love of my life.

"Cricket is the most amazing sport, there is something in it for everyone."