History of the Club

The following Club History provides a glimpse into the rich heritage of our esteemed cricket club. This historical account is sourced from the original Club History Book, which was created for the momentous occasion of our Club's Centenary in 1984. It should be noted that this narrative only encompasses events up until that particular milestone. However, for a more comprehensive and updated version, we recommend referring to the extensively revised book titled "125 Not Out," which was published for our Club's 125th Anniversary Celebrations in 2009. Copies of this book are still available and can be found on the Club Book page, conveniently located on the left-hand side of the Homepage of our website. Dive into the captivating legacy of our club and explore the remarkable journey that has brought us to where we stand today.

Travelling to Chingford Cricket club from London

To reach Chingford Cricket Club from London, UK within 40 minutes by bus, take the 97 or 357 bus from Walthamstow Central Station. Disembark at Chingford Hatch, and the club is a short walk away. Ensure to check the latest schedules and any possible updates before your journey.

The Initial Era 1884-1919

According to the 1890 Directory of Essex, the Chingford Cricket and Lawn Tennis Club was located at 25 Buxton Road, with the ground situated at the western edge of Chingford Plains. The club's Secretary at the time was GR Brown. It is evident that during its early stages, the club served as the cricket section of the existing Congregational Church located next to the ground on Buxton Road. The connection between the club and the church was so strong that they formed an alliance, resulting in the establishment of Chingford Alliance Cricket Club in 1896. Rule 2 of the club's regulations stated that the President of the club would be the Pastor of the Chingford Congregational Church by virtue of his position.

In 1896, there were several other interesting rules. Rule 3 declared that the club's colors would be green, chocolate, and amber. Taking inflation into account, rule 4 made cricket an expensive game that year, setting the entrance fee at 5 shillings and the subscription at 10 shillings and 6 pence for playing members.

The fixture list for that year included matches against several teams that the club still competes against today, including Loughton, South Woodford, Walthamstow, Wanstead, and Buckhurst Hill. The club changed its name to Chingford Cricket Club by 1898, although there is no doubt that it was the same club, as the list of members and rules remained virtually unchanged.

By 1906, the Chingford Village Cricket Club, under the leadership of Secretary J. Hicks, had relocated to a private ground on the north side of The Green, situated behind the Police Station (where Parkhill Road is now located). This ground, owned by the Chingford Rise Estate Co, was assessed at £2 per annum rates. Cricket continued to be played at this location until at least 1909. The exact date of the club's move to Forest Side, known then as the Pelham Ground and leased from Whitbreads, is uncertain, but it is confirmed that it occurred before the outbreak of the First World War. During this time, the ground was surrounded by houses only on the north boundary (Victoria Road), with greenhouses and fields extending to Whitehall Road on the south and west sides.

It is evident that George Underhill, the Secretary at the time, played a prominent role in the club's management during the challenging post-war years, as he was honored with life membership as a recognition of his contributions.

Post-World War I Era 1920-1929

In 1920, the mist of antiquity began to clear for Chingford Cricket Club as notable developments took place. The club expanded by establishing a Tennis Section at Forest Side, which included four courts and a separate pavilion. During this period, cricket subscriptions for players amounted to £1/11/6d per annum, and the club fielded three teams: a First XI, a Second XI for Saturday matches, and a Thursday team. The club played a total of twenty games that year, securing ten wins, four draws, and six defeats. Interestingly, no match cancellations were recorded, suggesting favorable weather conditions. Noteworthy performances included Hector Munro's score of 130 against Epping on June 5th, 1920, and Bill Riding's unbeaten 104 in the return match on August 14th. F. Good also made an impact by taking 5-10 against Hoffman's of Chelmsford.

In 1921, the club experienced mixed results, with only seven wins, nine losses, and eleven draws. Bill Riding, the vice-captain, achieved exceptional individual success before his tragic passing, amassing 1,305 runs in only 19 completed innings, including an unbeaten 202 against Liverpool Victoria on the August Bank Holiday. Riding also achieved five additional centuries during the season. W. Bar showcased his bowling prowess by claiming figures of 8-27 against Stoics. In the Second XI, R.H. Harwood stood out with a score of 151 against Walthamstow.

During this period, John Riding held the positions of Secretary and Fixture Secretary. In 1922, he assumed the Fixture Secretary role following the retirement of A.R. Dagnall. In 1923, G. Dormer's impressive innings of 104 against Southend highlighted the season. George Underhill resumed the role of Secretary, while Arthur Dagnall returned as Fixture Secretary. The club's management structure in 1923 was outlined in rule 4, which stated that a General Committee consisting of five guarantors, finance committee members, cricket committee members, tennis committee members, captains, vice-captains, honorary treasurer, match honorary secretary, and general honorary secretary would oversee the club's affairs, with a quorum requiring a minimum of ten members.

In 1924, Len Pugh led the team to ten victories, while W.G. Longdon and Norman Hodd emerged as the leading batsmen, each scoring 96 and 93 not out, respectively. Ernie Tongue, who was also involved in the Tennis Section, made a notable contribution by taking 6-21 against Romford Town. W.E. Barnes was the leading wicket-taker with 50 dismissals.

The 1925 season saw ten wins, five draws, and eight defeats for the First XI. Additionally, a new rule (rule 12) was introduced, granting the General Committee the authority to suspend or expel members whose conduct was detrimental to the club's interests. The Tennis Section, led by Mr. E.R. Davis and Mr. E. Way, enjoyed success with three wins and one draw out of four fixtures. Miss Wrightson and Mr. L.H. Williams claimed victory in the Pettingall-Norbury Mixed Doubles Trophy, while Mr. H.J. Radbourne and Mrs. Pettingall triumphed in the Cornish Challenge Cups.

Despite the challenges posed by the General Strike in 1926, the First XI achieved success with fifteen victories, nine draws, and seven defeats. Notably, the fixture list listed the Rt. Hon. Winston Churchill as a patron of the club. The following year, in 1927, the team secured fourteen wins, three draws, and six losses. Len Parslow topped the batting averages with an average of 33.5 and a high score of 104. W.E. Barkes claimed 100 wickets at an average of 13.7, while S. Kitchener and W. Sandrock took 63 and 62 wickets, respectively, at an average of 9.0 per dismissal. The Third XI introduced evening matches spanning two nights.

In 1928, the First XI, Second XI, and A XI played on Saturdays, with the A XI remaining unbeaten in seventeen games (13 wins and four draws). Len Parslow excelled by scoring 193 in a First XI match, and Bill Adamson emerged as the leading wicket-taker with 68 dismissals at an average of 17.4. The team secured eight wins, nine draws, and nine losses. The role of Press Secretary was assigned to S.C. Spicer for the 1928 season. The following year, in 1929, the playing record differed only by one additional loss. Sunday cricket was introduced, with a single side playing full-day games at home on a casual basis. On October 23rd, 1929, the General Committee Minutes began providing more detailed information, marking a clearer period for the club. From the 1930 season onwards, Chingford ran a First XI captained by Reg Taylor, along with two Second XIs (A and B) that utilized a second ground at Ridgeway Park.

The Era of Greatness 1930-1939

During this time, the club's facilities were relatively primitive. The 1930 Annual General Meeting took place at the nearby Royal Forest Hotel, while selection committee meetings and socializing occurred at the Queen Elizabeth Hotel, conveniently located next to the ground. The club's main structure was positioned in front of the current stables, and a tea hut was situated halfway along the south side of the ground. After tea, the leftovers were carried back to the tea hut by the groundsman. The tennis pavilion, which still stands today, served as the groundsman's shed.

The Tennis Section expressed their opinion at the General Committee Meeting in 1930 that the price of a cup of tea, currently at 2d, should be reduced to 1d. The club also participated in charity events, including a game held in aid of Forest Hospital, which raised a substantial sum of £26. A concert in aid of the blind marked the end of cricket week.

In those days, the club had specific rules regarding the approval of new players, requiring their endorsement at the Player's Meeting before being recommended to the Annual General Meeting. The Player's Meeting in 1931 voted to discontinue Thursday cricket, which had been played since 1925.

1932 proved to be a successful year for the club, with the First XI remaining undefeated under the leadership of Gordon Downes. Notably, Len Parslow, considered one of the most talented batsmen to have played for the club, scored 801 runs at an average of 38.14, with Don Spencer also contributing significantly with 668 runs. Mick Willson excelled as a bowler, taking 35 wickets at an average of 10.94, while captain Gordon Downes claimed 48 wickets at 11.33. The groundsman, Mr. Hall, produced billiard table-like wickets for the team's tremendous performances. However, a disagreement arose between the club and the innkeeper at the Queen Elizabeth over a willow tree behind the bowler's arm, resulting in tension and even contemplation of a "commando" raid. The Tennis Section faced challenges in the same year, winning only one game out of ten.

At the AGM in 1934, the club restructured into a 1st XI, 2nd XI, and 3rd XI. The Committee recognized the upcoming season as the club's Jubilee year and hoped for outstanding successes in sports. It was suggested that a new club flag be obtained, and members were asked to make contributions during the Annual General Meeting to fund the purchase. While some rules from 1934 remain unchanged, such as the club colors being chocolate, white, and blue, other changes occurred. Notably, the tea hut was now equipped with running water, a significant development that cost less than £2 to implement.

On the field, the strong 1st XI achieved thirteen wins, four draws, and seven losses, including a remarkable victory against a strong Essex Club and Ground XI. The 2nd XI surpassed 300 runs in an innings twice but also faced low scores in consecutive weeks. The Tennis Section made improvements compared to previous years, winning six out of eleven matches. The Jubilee year's cricket week concluded with the traditional flannel dance at the Queen Elizabeth.

In 1935, the club agreed to rent a space near the railway booking office for advertising purposes. A hockey pitch was used during the winter by Old Felstedians, and a football pitch hosted Chingford FC until March 1936. The first XI achieved 17 wins out of 28 matches, with Len Parslow once again surpassing 1000 runs. The 2nd XI, led by A.E. (Bill) Adamson, saw outstanding performances, with Adamson taking 89 wickets at an average of 10.26. The Tennis Section displayed improvement, winning six matches out of eleven.

In 1936, discussions arose regarding the possible relocation of the club's grounds to Hawkswood, although the club remained at Forest Side for the time being. A Sunday 'B' XI appeared on the fixture list for the first time. The club achieved success in the West Essex Cricket Clubs Darts League in 1936-7 and 1938-9, winning a lavatory plan as the grand prize. While the Men's Tennis Section remained unbeaten in 1937, the Ladies' Tennis Section did not secure any victories. However, they won one match out of four in 1938.

The General Committee Minutes in 1938 documented discussions regarding the use of the heavy roller and the introduction of a hard tennis court. In 1939, the fixture list included matches against various teams, such as Asterisks, Caterpillars, Grasshoppers, and Royal Epping Golf Club for the Sunday A XI, and a game against South Essex Waterworks for the Sunday B's.

Cricket during the 1930s

Reflecting on the past half-century brings forth a flood of nostalgic memories, some of which remain remarkably vivid. While I anticipate accusations of personal bias, it must be acknowledged that top-level club cricket during that time was an entirely different beast.

The atmosphere was charged with excitement, as there were no leagues in the southern region of England. Prestige was the driving force, evident in the carefully curated fixture list. In contrast to leagues where you have no choice but to play against certain clubs, our focus was on building and maintaining an appealing schedule. To achieve this, it was not enough to field a strong side; we were expected to play attractive cricket in the right spirit, always aiming for victory and accepting defeat with honor. I can recall only one instance of Chingford losing a fixture in the 1930s, but there were a few matches we were glad to put behind us.

My personal involvement with Chingford as a 1st XI player was limited to the 1930s. I joined the club as a 17-year-old fresh out of school in the late 1920s. During that period, the 1st XI had a mixed playing record, and the 2nd XI felt like an exclusive clique, difficult to break into. As a result, a few of us were promoted directly from the 3rd XI to the 1st. In one season, the 3rd XI went undefeated, although promotion to the 1st XI was delayed to preserve the unbeaten record. The club's management during that time left much to be desired. I distinctly remember a pavilion discussion about filling a first-team vacancy, where the dismissal of a potential candidate was based on the fact that he did not own a car.

In those days, a car was considered a remarkable asset, although they were far less common than today. The 2nd XI seemed to be well-equipped with this mode of transport, but let us not dwell on those peculiar times. The 1930s arrived, marking a flourishing era for the club under the enterprising leadership of Gordon Downes, a fast-medium bowler who consistently took a significant number of wickets and posed a formidable threat with his late-swinging new ball.

The following were the specialist batsmen who entertained us with their remarkable cricketing skills during those thrilling years, listed in batting order: L. F. Parslow, S. C. Spicer, W. G. (Don) Spencer, A. Meston, N. E. Westerhout, P. A. Simpson, S. F. Bland, F. G. Cheeswright, H. G. Willson, G. Downes, A. E. Adamson, J. Harwood. In total, there were twelve players, although Don Spencer later moved to Chelmsford for business reasons, and Alec Meston often played for his firm's team. It is worth mentioning that there could have been another name on the list, but W. F. Sandrock tragically passed away shortly after the 1930s began. Sandrock was an exceptionally talented young player, both as a batsman and a slow left-arm bowler, and his untimely demise was a significant loss for the club. He was one of three players, including myself, who honed their batting skills by studying a book written by the legendary C. B. Fry. Parslow discovered this treasure on a second-hand bookstall, and it proved to be invaluable.

To those who claim that one cannot learn to bat (and play golf, for that matter) by reading books, I say they are mistaken. However, it must be acknowledged that not all books are created equal. Fry's book was undoubtedly one of the very best.

In 1932, the 1st XI enjoyed an undefeated season with very few drawn matches. As the season progressed, Gordon Downes, if he won the toss, elected to field first so that he could exploit the new ball's conditions, and we would have a target to chase. And chase we did. I cannot recall a single match in which we tried to cling on for a draw. The skipper always aimed for victory. When batting first, we declared with a target of at least 220 runs, which we frequently achieved. While the opponents were given ample time to chase the total, none of them managed to do so in 1932. However, if they did succeed in subsequent years, none of us had any complaints. This approach made for an exhilarating game, regardless of whether we were setting or chasing a total. Gordon was a beloved captain, and while I sometimes felt he was a bit too audacious, he possessed the right mindset. The spirit of the game meant everything to him.

In the late 1930s, after Willson and Adamson retired and Meston played for his firm's team, I opened the bowling with Downes. Although I occasionally picked up a wicket or two, the bulk of the wickets were taken by Downes and Harwood. Alec Meston

The years of conflict 1940-45

In 1940, amidst the outbreak of war, an Extraordinary General Meeting was held to determine the fate of the club. It was unanimously decided that, subject to financial availability, cricket would continue, and members serving in H.M. Forces would be eligible for selection when on leave, upon payment of the match fee. The Tennis Section suspended its activities during the war, with plans for potential reformation after the conflict.

On March 20, 1940, the future of the ground was settled as the local council acquired the 5.238 acres of land at Forest Side through conveyance. Since then, the land has been leased to the club by the council.

Despite the challenges of wartime, thanks to the dedication of older members, the club fielded a 1st XI, 2nd XI, and Sunday XI. Joe Jessop, the secretary at the time, played a significant role in upholding the club's spirit. The 1942 Sunday fixture list included matches against the Home Guard and the Chingford Wardens. In an extraordinary game against Edmonton, five wickets fell consecutively. On June 10, 1945, a unique fixture took place between Chingford & Walthamstow and Highams Park and West Essex, with proceeds benefiting Connaught Hospital.

Meanwhile, Len Parslow represented the British Empire XI throughout the war, participating in high-level cricket matches, often held at Lord's. The team frequently included several Test cricketers who were present in the country at the time.

The Club in the Post-War Era from 1946 to 1959

Following the cessation of hostilities and the return of younger members from the armed forces, the club was able to field three full elevens for the 1946 season. Thanks to the support of the Council, a new pavilion had been constructed, resolving the uncertainty surrounding the ground. The Council granted a 21-year lease of the Forest Side ground.

By 1947, the club's membership had reached 500, including 70 playing members. A remarkable crowd of 2,500 spectators gathered at Forest Side for a Sunday game between Chingford and Essex, held in support of Peter Smith's benefit. It's difficult to fathom such a large crowd for a cricket match in today's times, where players are accustomed to performing in front of sparse audiences. The 1948 Essex Yearbook notes:

"Although not as successful due to a lack of bowling, the season produced enjoyable cricket. Gordon Downes once again proved himself a capable skipper, while Alan Mainwaring, who scored a century, and C. Swinfen were the best bowlers. However, young bowlers emerged on the horizon, ready to replace veterans G. Downes and J. Harwood."

F. Fedrick raised an important topic for debate in 1948, a subject that continues to be a source of contention today: whether the 3rd XI should play two games at Forest Side.

In May 1948, the committee considered an estimate from the Eastern Electricity Board for the installation of lighting points and a power point. The tender was accepted, and instructions were given for the board to proceed. The electricity supply would be connected to the pavilion via the home of a member, Mr. Ashley, residing at 15 Faversham Avenue.

In 1948, a significant step was taken towards raising funds when a bar was opened, which generated a healthy profit of £40 after five weeks of operation. However, the team's performance on the field was lackluster, with the 1st XI winning only two out of twenty games. Bill Sharnock scored over 1,000 runs, and Cliff Crafer contributed 950 runs, including a brilliant unbeaten 114 in a nine-wicket victory over Walthamstow. Notably, Harold Pryor accomplished a unique feat in the club's history by taking all ten wickets in a 2nd XI game against Red Triangle on June 5th, 1948. In a previous match, he had fallen just one wicket short of achieving the same feat against Buckhurst Hill. Buddy Jessop, who played in that game, recalls the unpopular moment when Bill Adamson took the final wicket. Sunday B games resumed that season, and Eric Grey expressed the desire to recapture the club's tradition of playing aggressively and going for runs, sentiments shared by many during this era.

At the Annual General Meeting in 1948, Mr. Downes extended the club's congratulations to Ken Biddulph and Bernard Earl for being selected as Colts bowlers by the Evening News. This national scheme aimed to identify a group of talented young cricketers capable of playing representative cricket, marking the beginning of Ken's illustrious career.

In time for the 1949 season, a new scorebox was erected next to the cricket pavilion. The first XI won seven out of twenty-eight fixtures that year, with Bill Sharnock again proving to be the most consistent batsman, while Roy Porter took 56 wickets. The winter season featured hockey once again at Forest Side, with the West Essex Club using two pitches. Additionally, a telephone was installed for the first time, with the number Silverthorne 5849.

In 1949, Rule 15 was implemented, specifying the permitted hours for the supply of intoxicants. The General Committee decided to have a blackboard placed against the fence, displaying the batting order. They also decided against selling potato crisps at the bar.

July 1950 marked Doug Insole becoming the first Chingford player to be selected for the England cricket team. The groundsman's benefit took the form of a match featuring famous players, and the proceeds from collections, raffles, and scorecards were presented to him in appreciation of his work over the summer.

In 1952, the Secretary received letters of regret from Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur Football Clubs, declining the invitation to play against Chingford in the Cricket Week. The highlight of the season was Doug Insole's success with Essex, scoring 1,658 first-class runs, including three centuries. That same year, Minor County cricket came to Chingford as Essex II XI defeated Middlesex II IX by a convincing nine-wicket margin at Forest Side. To commemorate the Festival of Britain, a Double Flowering Cherry Tree was planted in the name of the Club in Valley Side.

With an increase in car ownership in 1951, cars began entering the ground via Kimberley Way on match days, leading to parking difficulties outside the Queen Elizabeth pub. The hope was to provide parking in the area where the Players' Car Park now stands. Furthermore, electricity reached the tea hut for the first time, sourced from the main supply in the clubhouse via nine-foot-high poles.

For the first time in the club's history, four Chingford XI's were fielded, as is still the case today. The most successful batsman that season was George Chapman, while Bunny Swinfen was the standout bowler. In the 2nd XI, a young Derek Harwood scored 142 runs against Highgate, smashing eleven sixes and thirteen fours. In a July clash at Forest Side, Essex II set Surrey II a target of 115 runs in one hour. The match ended in a thrilling climax, with the visitors falling just eleven runs short with three wickets in hand. During that era, matches were arranged for Essex beneficiaries, and the game between Ray Smith's Essex County XI and Chingford raised £83.750 brochures and 1,000 scorecards were printed for the crowd.

At the 1953 Annual General Meeting, it was decided to remove chocolate from the club's colors, leaving only blue and white. A cold shower was installed in the dressing room, courtesy of Harry Speight, which was a welcome improvement from attempting to wash one's feet in high washbasins. The traditional cricket week, reintroduced in the centenary year, was abandoned and replaced with three midweek fixtures. Another significant milestone occurred when four Chingford XI's played against four Buckhurst Hill XI's on the same day for the first time in the club's history. The Lea Valley playing fields were allocated for 3rd XI games, with the final fixture played at Larkswood. However, the 3rd XI also played three evening games at Forest Side. There were no Minor Counties fixtures in 1953, but a testimonial match was played for Frank Rist on May 16th.

In 1953, Doug Insole was appointed captain of the Essex County side, and Don Spencer,

The onset of the contemporary period 1960-69.

In 1960, Ken Dowding and Ron Lynch were selected to play for the Club Cricket Conference against MCC at Lords. The 1st XI had a successful season, losing only two games.

In 1961, the club received a generous bequest of 100 guineas from John Makins, which was used to build a new scorebox in the top corner of the ground. Ted Sandrock and Graham Saville emerged as prominent batsmen, with both scoring over 1,000 runs. Robin Hobbs also earned selection for Essex on multiple occasions.

The Square Cut Society was replaced by the Triple Top Society in 1962, which continued the tradition of a football lottery in collaboration with West Essex CC and Chingford RFC. Joe Jessop retired after serving the committee for 23 years, while Frank Cheesewright stepped down as Hon. Auditor after 20 years. The 1st XI won eight out of 20 games that year, and George Chapman played his final match for Chingford after accumulating 22,502 runs since 1932.

Doug Insole became the Club President in 1963, and the 1st XI won six out of 19 games. Robin Hobbs and Graham Saville made strides in their careers, with Hobbs reaching the England squad. Improved facilities were secured for the 3rd XI, who would play their home matches at the London Transport Ground in Walthamstow.

The existing pavilion was destroyed by fire in August 1966, causing significant disruption. However, the committee unanimously decided to carry on, and the game scheduled for the following Saturday proceeded with makeshift arrangements. An appeal was launched in 1967 to raise funds for a new pavilion, and the construction began with the support of grants and donations.

The 1968 season saw the completion of the new clubhouse, which included a clubroom, bar, changing rooms, showers, and groundsman's accommodation. A special match between Chingford and Doug Insole's XI marked the opening. The 1st XI had a successful season, losing only three out of 25 games.

In 1969, plans were made to finance improved facilities through a 100 club run by Tom Shepherd. The roadway around the ground was completed, and an extension to the pavilion was approved. Additionally, a table tennis section was established, and the 1st XI remained unbeaten on Saturdays with the return of Doug Insole as an active club member.

Cricket in the League: 1970-1979

In 1970, Chingford joined the newly formed Essex Senior League, and under the captaincy of Ron Lynch, the team had an excellent season with thirteen wins in twenty-four games and only four defeats. Notable bowling performances included Roy Lambert dismissing Graham Gooch with the first ball in a 2nd XI game and Reg Bancroft taking 7-57 against a Chinghoppers side, which included John Lever, Robin Hobbs, and David Acfield. Bryan Knight became a full member of the Umpire's Association.

In 1971, the club mourned the death of Freddie Cheesewright, who had been involved with the club since 1932. Geoff Sandrock and Bryan Hart stood out on the field, with Sandrock scoring 956 runs and Hart taking 49 wickets. The 1st XI finished fifth in the Essex Senior Competition. The year also marked the introduction of the "fines" system in the 2nd XI, and Ralph Lawrence retired as an umpire after twenty years of service.

The 1972 season saw the purchase of four sightscreens for £201 and a change in club rule 9 regarding the selection of captains for the Sunday sides. Bunny Swinfen, who had served as Secretary for seventeen years, was honored for his dedication, and a colt named Peter Joslin became the youngest player to score a century at Forest Side. Chingford finished lower down the table in the league despite Bryan Hart's 48 wickets.

In 1973, Chingford, along with eighteen other clubs, left the Essex Senior Competition to form the new Essex League. Ron Lynch became Chairman, and Brian Knight took on the role of Fixture Secretary. Plans were made to extend the pavilion, and the club had a successful season, narrowly missing out on capturing league honors.

1974 saw Chingford's best performance in the Essex League, narrowly missing out on the title by one point. They achieved a record-breaking score of 403-1 against Forest Group Hospitals in the Kemp Cup, earning mention on Test Match Special. Geoff Sandrock excelled with over 2,000 runs, and Graham Saville scored a remarkable 129 not out. The year was also marked by the death of Ted Lord, a dedicated worker for the club.

Under the captaincy of Robin Runciman, the 3rd XI had an unbeaten season in 1975, and a benefit match was organized for Robin Hobbs. Ron Lynch had his farewell season, and Geoff Sandrock continued to impress with over 2,000 runs. Steve Plumb made his debut for Essex, and Richard Alston achieved consecutive hat-tricks.

The club embarked on the construction of an Indoor Cricket School in 1977, and efforts were made to improve the ground conditions at Forest Side. Bryan Hart and Richard Alston had successful seasons as captain and bowler, respectively. The following years saw a rebuilding phase for the club after the loss of key players in the 1970s. Doug Insole received the CBE for his contributions to cricket, and Ron Lynch took on managerial roles for the Club Cricket Conference tour of Australia. David Jones fulfilled a personal ambition by managing Chingford's first cricket tour to Cheshire.

Embracing Orwell's Shadow: The Years 1980-84

In 1980, the growing membership led to the Club fielding three Sunday sides regularly. The season's highlight was a tour match against East Lancs, where Chingford faced Australian test player Kerry O'Keefe. O'Keefe's exceptional performance with the ball, taking 5-32, and scoring an unbeaten 124 runs, resulted in East Lancs winning by three wickets. Nitin Patel impressed in the match, with both the opposition and spectators mistaking him for the Club's professional player.

On November 2, 1980, the Indoor Cricket School was inaugurated by the Mayor, Councillor K.A. Saunders, with the first ball bowled by Essex and England fast bowler John Lever. The school, which featured two nets with specialized surfaces for fast and slow bowling, was made possible through the generous support of various donors, including the Greater London Sports Council, J.M. Welch, Trumans Ltd, Waltham Forest Sports Council, Thorn Lighting Ltd, F. Page, and the patrons and members of Chingford Cricket Club.

In 1981, Michael Higgs became Club Captain, and the 1st XI showed improved performance, securing a mid-table position. The Club also entered the Ilford and District Cricket Association's Indoor League for the first time, with Jeff Runciman leading the 'A' team to promotion in their inaugural season.

In 1982, Malcolm Watson donated a trophy in memory of his father, Jack, awarded annually to the player who scored the most runs for the Club each season. Bunny Swinfen donated a companion trophy for the player with the most wickets. Richard Alston and Iain Hastings were the first winners of these respective trophies. Notable achievements included Ian Lambert becoming the youngest player to score a century in a full Club fixture at the age of sixteen, and Fraser Lawrence taking a hat-trick in a 'C' XI game.

The winter of 1982/1983 saw Doug Insole appointed manager of the MCC tour to Australia, and improvements were made to the clubhouse with the completion of a connecting building to the Cricket School. Salim Awan won the Jack Watson Trophy, and Iain Hastings won the Bunny Swinfen Trophy for the second time. The Under-14 Colts brought home the East Saxons 6-a-side Memorial Trophy.

In 1980, the growing membership led to the Club fielding three Sunday sides regularly. The season's highlight was a tour match against East Lancs, where Chingford faced Australian test player Kerry O'Keefe. O'Keefe's exceptional performance with the ball, taking 5-32, and scoring an unbeaten 124 runs, resulted in East Lancs winning by three wickets. Nitin Patel impressed in the match, with both the opposition and spectators mistaking him for the Club's professional player.

On November 2, 1980, the Indoor Cricket School was inaugurated by the Mayor, Councillor K.A. Saunders, with the first ball bowled by Essex and England fast bowler John Lever. The school, which featured two nets with specialized surfaces for fast and slow bowling, was made possible through the generous support of various donors, including the Greater London Sports Council, J.M. Welch, Trumans Ltd, Waltham Forest Sports Council, Thorn Lighting Ltd, F. Page, and the patrons and members of Chingford Cricket Club.

In 1981, Michael Higgs became Club Captain, and the 1st XI showed improved performance, securing a mid-table position. The Club also entered the Ilford and District Cricket Association's Indoor League for the first time, with Jeff Runciman leading the 'A' team to promotion in their inaugural season.

In 1982, Malcolm Watson donated a trophy in memory of his father, Jack, awarded annually to the player who scored the most runs for the Club each season. Bunny Swinfen donated a companion trophy for the player with the most wickets. Richard Alston and Iain Hastings were the first winners of these respective trophies. Notable achievements included Ian Lambert becoming the youngest player to score a century in a full Club fixture at the age of sixteen, and Fraser Lawrence taking a hat-trick in a 'C' XI game.

The winter of 1982/1983 saw Doug Insole appointed manager of the MCC tour to Australia, and improvements were made to the clubhouse with the completion of a connecting building to the Cricket School. Salim Awan won the Jack Watson Trophy, and Iain Hastings won the Bunny Swinfen Trophy for the second time. The Under-14 Colts brought home the East Saxons 6-a-side Memorial Trophy.

In 1983, the Club's involvement in Indoor Cricket increased, with the 'A' side topping the table for the first time. Ted Sandrock retired as President after 36 years of service, and Jeff Runciman's dedicated work on the Committee continued, while David Jones ensured the Club's financial stability as Treasurer and later as President.

From 1985 and Beyond

The club has compiled season-by-season summaries to be added to the website, ensuring regular documentation of its history. These summaries are now accessible under the "Previous Seasons" section on the left-hand side of the homepage.