Custodians of the historic cricket ground near Hambledon have launched a crowdfunding campaign for essential work.

Broadhalfpenny Brigands Cricket Club is aiming to raise £10,000 to restore and preserve Broadhalfpenny Down for future generations.

The pavilion, already weather-worn and leaking, suffered further damage during Storm Darragh, losing roof tiles and its iconic clock. The club's outdated ground maintenance equipment and unsafe practice facilities are also in desperate need of replacement.

Broadhalfpenny Down pavilion
The old pavilion was already leaking before Storm Darragh arrived, ripping out more tiles and blowing the iconic clock away. (Broadhalfpenny Brigands CC)

The ground was where the original First-Class match took place on June 24, 1772, and cricket is now played regularly by Broadhalfpenny Brigands CC, Hambledon CC, the junior teams at Hampshire CCC.

In 2022, a celebrity match was held to celebrate 250 years since the first game when a Hampshire All Star XI, captained by Mark Nicholas, took on an All England XI, led by Charlotte Edwards.

Head of cricket, David Henderson, said: “Broadhalfpenny Down isn't just a field - it’s cricket history, with legendary stories, and our home; we want to restore it for the whole community.”

Funds raised will be used to:

  • Repair and improve the pavilion to ensure it's accessible and welcoming.
  • Replace ageing mowers critical for pitch upkeep.
  • Install a proper boundary rope for match day standards.
  • Replace the dilapidated practice nets with safer, modern ones.
Broadhalfpenny Brigands putting on the famous London Pride covers
Broadhalfpenny Brigands putting on the famous London Pride covers (Ryan Pierse)

The Down hosts more than 60 cricket matches each year, for men, women, and juniors in local teams, and welcomes cricket-loving visitors who come to see the birthplace of First Class cricket.

Broadhalfpenny Brigands chairman, Gerry Northwood, commented: "Once the ground is restored we will host touring teams from all over the world, more women's cricket, and blind and visually impaired matches.”

To make a donation, visit the crowdfunder page at https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/cradleofcricket. You can also find out more information on the website or Instagram.