International cricket legends were among those in attendance at Bat For A Chance’s inaugural annual dinner.
Former England stars Mark Butcher, Devon Malcolm, Simon Jones and Alec Stewart joined 250 fellow guests to celebrate the charity’s work using cricket for social change – and to raise vital funds for its work domestically and around the world.
On the night, the former Test players were full of praise for the work of the charity, founded by schoolboy Will Gaffney.
“What a fantastic organisation,” said Malcolm.
“Getting cricket equipment to support young people to play cricket worldwide and anything to do with empowering them – I’m for that.”
Jones added: “Everyone should have the opportunity to play and the kit that Will is supplying now gives them the opportunity to do that.”
And Butcher said: “Giving kids and parents who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford it the chance to play this wonderful game is something quite special.”
Australian rugby legend Michael Chieka and Olympic gold winner Susannah Townsend were also among those in attendance.
“It gives kids and people the opportunity, who may not get the opportunity, to play the game, have some fun and enjoy themselves,” said and impressed Chieka.
The money donated at the event, run in partnership with global law firm Latham & Watkins, will all go towards helping BFAC’s projects driving social change through cricket around the world.
“Being able to run an event like this is massive,” said Gaffney.
“As a start-up charity, now a few years in, it’s a huge step forward to be able to get 250 interesting people in a room from a range of professional backgrounds.
“It opens up doors for further sponsorship and shows a vote of confidence in what we’re doing.
“I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who attended.
“I can’t state enough how much of a difference those donations will make.
“Every single penny goes straight back into helping our projects in the UK and around the world – having an impact on someone’s life.”
To donate to BFAC’s work, click here.
