First, we were all saddened to learn of the accident and death of Robin Watson in September. Robin grew up in the Bromley area. He and Helen moved from Bitchet Green to The Old Vicarage, where he set up Underriver Construction during the 1990s. They were both regular and unstinting supporters of UCC.
Robin enjoyed fly fishing and skiing but, unlike Helen, showed no aptitude for ball games. This is somewhat surprising in light of the ability demonstrated by their 2 sons, Alex and Nick. Robin found time to devote both to the Underriver Village Association and to Seal Parish Council. Around 2014, he and Helen moved north to Yorkshire. Robin quickly adapted to life in ‘God’s own county’. Indeed, earlier on the day of his accident he had been attending the Nidderdale show. Our thoughts are with Alex and Nick and their families at this difficult time.
Secondly, the cricket. The amazing feature of summer 2022 was the weather, which had negligible impact on fixtures. Possibly for the first time in living memory! The Saturday League XI had its moments, particularly in mid-season. However, Division 3 proved ultimately to be a step too far and they will resume in Division 4 of the KCVL next year. Many young players turned out for UCC, so captain Kendall Jarrett has high hopes for 2023. Sunday friendly fixtures were played in collaboration with Ightham as ‘Underightham CC’. Perhaps UCC is ahead of the curve in this regard? Skipper Mark Dubock thinks so. The arrangement requires some goodwill and a significant coordination effort, which is Mark’s strong suit.
Thirdly, the Jubilee. The Club was delighted to host a Platinum Jubilee match on Saturday 4 June against the XI assembled by Edward Rook to represent the village. UCC was playing a League fixture but Hon Secretary Dick Hawkes deployed the charm and threats necessary to raise a team to represent UCC. The match (won by UCC, in case I am asked) was followed by a BBQ in Mary Owlett’s adjacent field. The efforts of many volunteers combined to ensure the success of the occasion. Only the sunshine was missing.
Lastly, this will be my final missive. I am pleased to report that UCC is, for the first time and like other such cricket clubs, appointing a Chairman. More to follow in the coming months.
Adrian Barr-Smith
President, Underriver CC
Robin enjoyed fly fishing and skiing but, unlike Helen, showed no aptitude for ball games. This is somewhat surprising in light of the ability demonstrated by their 2 sons, Alex and Nick. Robin found time to devote both to the Underriver Village Association and to Seal Parish Council. Around 2014, he and Helen moved north to Yorkshire. Robin quickly adapted to life in ‘God’s own county’. Indeed, earlier on the day of his accident he had been attending the Nidderdale show. Our thoughts are with Alex and Nick and their families at this difficult time.
Secondly, the cricket. The amazing feature of summer 2022 was the weather, which had negligible impact on fixtures. Possibly for the first time in living memory! The Saturday League XI had its moments, particularly in mid-season. However, Division 3 proved ultimately to be a step too far and they will resume in Division 4 of the KCVL next year. Many young players turned out for UCC, so captain Kendall Jarrett has high hopes for 2023. Sunday friendly fixtures were played in collaboration with Ightham as ‘Underightham CC’. Perhaps UCC is ahead of the curve in this regard? Skipper Mark Dubock thinks so. The arrangement requires some goodwill and a significant coordination effort, which is Mark’s strong suit.
Thirdly, the Jubilee. The Club was delighted to host a Platinum Jubilee match on Saturday 4 June against the XI assembled by Edward Rook to represent the village. UCC was playing a League fixture but Hon Secretary Dick Hawkes deployed the charm and threats necessary to raise a team to represent UCC. The match (won by UCC, in case I am asked) was followed by a BBQ in Mary Owlett’s adjacent field. The efforts of many volunteers combined to ensure the success of the occasion. Only the sunshine was missing.
Lastly, this will be my final missive. I am pleased to report that UCC is, for the first time and like other such cricket clubs, appointing a Chairman. More to follow in the coming months.
Adrian Barr-Smith
President, Underriver CC