Club History

The earliest surviving written record of Three Bridges Cricket Club (TBCC) is found in the minutes of its 1884 Annual General Meeting. However, those minutes, along with contemporary newspaper reports, make it clear the club had been active for some years prior. Initially, membership was reserved exclusively for railway employees, but by the 1880s, the club had opened its doors to the wider community.

TBCC has called its current ground home since 1906, when it played as a village side in the East Grinstead League with two Saturday teams and a Wednesday XI. At the time, the club paid an annual rent of £3 to sub-let the field from a local butcher, whose livestock grazed on the outfield when cricket was not in play.

In 1970, TBCC became a founding member of the Sussex League and has since maintained a strong presence at the top levels of county cricket. Today, the club fields four senior men’s teams, two mid-week T20 Slam sides, a thriving junior programme, a women’s team, and a recently launched girls’ section, all within an inclusive cricket environment that reflects and celebrates the diversity of the local community.

The People behind the scenes

Meet our team

A vibrant community of passionate volunteers and cricket enthusiasts, dedicated to nurturing talent and providing inclusive opportunities across all levels – from Division 11 to Premier Division, a thriving Colts program from U9 to U18, and a growing presence in women’s and girls’ cricket.

Derek Wolfe- Chairperson

Derek Wolfe

Chairperson

As Chair of TBCC, my primary responsibility is to drive the club’s progress both on and off the field. This includes:

  • Ensuring the success and development of all playing sections, senior men’s, juniors, and our growing women’s and girls’ teams.
  • Overseeing the continuous improvement of our facilities to provide the best possible environment for players and members.
  • Leading the club’s strategic direction, working closely with the committee, volunteers, and stakeholders to sustain long-term growth.

My Background with TBCC:

My connection with the club began at 17 when I joined as a player, spending most of my career in the 3rd XI, including captaining the side to a league title during our West Sussex League days.

Some of my fondest memories come from touring, whether regular trips to Southport, adventures with The Ducklings in North Devon, or the unforgettable Millennium tour to South Africa.

After retiring from playing and raising my family, I re-engaged with the club through committee work before becoming Chair in 2020, just as the pandemic hit. Despite those unprecedented challenges, the club’s resilience and teamwork saw us through, and I remain committed to building on that spirit for the future.

Steve

Steve Brown

Head of Senior Men’s Cricket

As Head of Senior Men’s Cricket at TBCC, I oversee all aspects of senior cricket, ensuring competitive performance while fostering player development. My key responsibilities include:

  • Managing team selection and overseas player recruitment.
  • Handling administrative duties for League and Cup cricket.
  • Supporting captains to field balanced, competitive XIs.
  • Providing a pathway for talented juniors to progress into senior cricket.

My Background with TBCC: My journey with the club began in 1991 as a player, where I was part of the 1st XI for many years and celebrated a League title in 1996. Later, I captained the 2nd XI before retiring from playing around 15 years ago.

Beyond playing, I’m an ECB Level 2 qualified coach and have worked with junior age groups (U11–U16). It’s been incredibly rewarding to see many of those players now thriving in our 1st XI.

In addition to my cricket roles, I serve as Vice Chair of the club and Head Groundsman, contributing to both its strategic direction and the quality of our facilities.

John Cook - Welfare and safeguarding Officer

John Cook

Welfare and safeguarding Officer 

My Role at the Club: At TBCC, my primary responsibility is to ensure the welfare and safeguarding of all members and visitors. A key aspect of my role focuses on child protection, which includes:

  • Conducting DBS checks for members with child welfare responsibilities.
  • Developing and implementing safeguarding policies.
  • Organising safeguarding and first aid training for relevant staff and volunteers.
  • Ensuring the club remains compliant with Clubmark and Safe Hands standards, as mandated by the ECB.

My Background with TBCC: My involvement with Three Bridges began as a junior coach, a role I held for ten years. I’m also a former player and had the honour of captaining the club’s 4th XI.

nick

Nick Parker

Club Secretary
As Club Secretary of TBCC, my primary responsibility is to ensure the club maintains robust governance and complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.

My involvement extends beyond administration, with a long-standing commitment to our junior section as a coach. Currently, I am also focused on supporting and developing our rapidly growing ladies’ and girls’ teams.

My Background with the Club:

My personal journey with the club has been a family affair. One of my greatest pleasures has been the occasional opportunity to dust off my cricket kit and take to the field alongside my sons in the senior sides.

karen

Karen Howe

Committee Member & Ladies Team Player

As a member of the committee, my primary responsibility is to represent the voices and interests of our ladies’ and girls’ sections at TBCC. My key focuses include:

  • Advocating for our female members to ensure they are supported, heard, and represented in all committee decisions.
  • Organising and hosting social events to strengthen our club community and foster connections beyond the pitch.

My Background with TBCC:

I joined the club three years ago alongside my two older daughters, seeking an activity we could all enjoy together. This personal connection drives my passion for creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all our members.

Beyond representing our members, I take great joy in bringing people together through events. In the past year, I have helped organise our Family Festival, paint nights, a highly successful Race Night, and several popular quiz nights.

Tahir

Tahir Liaqat

Player, Manager & Committee Member

At TBCC, I wear multiple hats, contributing both on and off the field:

  • Player: Regular member of the 2nd and 3rd XIs since joining the club.
  • U14 Manager: Have coached the same group since they were at U9 level, now seeing some transition into senior cricket.
  • Committee Member: Assist in club governance and decision-making.
  • Web Site Manager: Responsible for maintaining and updating the club’s website to ensure accurate information. Enhances the site’s user experience and supports digital engagement with members and supporters. Works closely with committees and teams to keep content fresh and relevant.

My Background with TBCC:

I moved to Crawley in 2008 and began playing for Three Bridges in 2009. Over the years, I’ve featured across various teams but have been a consistent presence in the 2nd and 3rd XIs, where I still play today.

One of my most rewarding experiences has been managing my U14 squad, nurturing their development from a young age. It’s been fantastic to watch several of them take their first steps in senior cricket, a testament to the club’s pathway system.

Matt Lawson

Junior teams co-ordinator

As Junior Teams Coordinator at TBCC, my focus is to support our junior section by ensuring coaches have the resources and guidance they need. My key priorities include:

  • Creating a safe, inclusive, and well-structured environment for all young players.
  • Helping juniors develop both technical skills and match awareness.
  • Encouraging progression into senior cricket, with the aim of nurturing long-term club members.

I also directly manage one of our age-group teams, which my youngest son plays in.

My Background with TBCC:

My connection with the club began when my eldest son joined as a 7-year-old. Since then, I’ve been actively involved in fostering the next generation of players, combining my passion for cricket with the joy of seeing young talent grow.

Name

Role

Description

Dan

Dan Alderman

Treasurer

As Treasurer of TBCC, I am responsible for the club’s financial health and sustainability. My key duties include:

  • Managing the club’s finances to ensure we operate within our means.
  • Ensuring all bills and invoices are paid in a timely manner.
  • Reviewing and negotiating contracts for essential services (e.g., electricity, gas, telephone) to secure the best possible value for the club.
  • Preparing financial proposals for the committee, including recommendations for membership subscriptions and match fees across all sections of the club.

My Background with TBCC:

My lifelong passion for cricket began in my garden, playing with my older brother. This led to a pivotal moment when our local paperman, having seen us play, suggested we attend junior nets at Crawley Cricket Club, which were run by the late Stan Berry. I took up that invitation at the age of nine and have been involved in cricket ever since.

Meet Our Team Captains

Joe Walker - 1st Team Captain

Joe Walker

1st Team Captain

As 1st Team Captain at TBCC, my primary focus is to lead the side by building a competitive and positive environment. My key responsibilities include:

  • Performance: Setting high standards, driving for positive results, and building a winning mentality.
  • Culture: Fostering a team environment where players can express themselves, build lasting friendships, and maintain a genuine love for the game.

My Background with TBCC:

My journey with the club began at the age of 7, progressing through every level of the junior system. This deep-rooted history within TBCC has given me a profound understanding of the club’s values. I have had the honour of captaining the 1st XI since 2019.

2nd team captain Jamie Ward

Jamie Ward

2nd Team Captain

As 2nd Team Captain at TBCC, my focus is on leading the side with a balance of competitive spirit and a positive, inclusive culture. My key priorities include:

  • Developing emerging talent – having come through the youth system myself, I’m passionate about helping the next generation progress.
  • Promoting teamwork and enjoyment – cricket should be challenging but also fun and welcoming.
  • Building a strong, united squad, ensuring players of all levels feel valued and motivated.

My Background with TBCC:

I have been part of the club for 18 years, starting in the youth teams before earning my place in the senior sides. Now, as captain, I take pride in giving back, helping young players follow the same path I did.

Amit Vaiadya - 3rd team Captain

Amit Vaidya

3rd Team Captain 

As the 3rd XI Captain at TBCC, my priority is to lead a squad of both promising juniors and experienced seniors, fostering a positive and competitive team environment. My key objectives are:

  • Developing Junior Cricketers: Providing meaningful game time and experience to help juniors build confidence and skills.
  • Ensuring Readiness for Higher Teams: Preparing players for the next level by deepening their understanding of the game’s nuances and improving their ability to execute skills under match conditions.
  • Engaging Senior Players: Encouraging our senior cricketers to pursue their passion, enjoy their cricket, and share their invaluable experience to guide the next generation of players.

My Background with TBCC:

I joined the club in late 2021 and was honoured to be elected captain for the 2023 season. A major highlight was leading the team to an excellent season with 13 wins. I take great pride in my role and leverage my 20+ years of playing experience to guide the team.

Haydon Robinson - 4th team captain

Haydon Robinson

4th Team Captain 

As the 4th Team Captain at TBCC, my primary objective is to successfully blend competitiveness with player development. My key responsibilities include:

  • Introducing up-and-coming juniors to adult cricket in a positive and supportive environment.
  • Helping to develop junior players’ skills and game understanding during training and in matches.
  • Ensuring all team members are included, engaged, and enjoying their cricket.

My Background with TBCC:

I joined TBCC from Cheam CC in June 2021 and was honoured to be appointed captain in 2024. My time at the club has been marked by several proud achievements, including:

  • Winning promotion from Division 12 to 11 in my first season as captain.
  • Leading the team to victory in the T20 Slam trophy in the same season.
  • Earning the league award for the highest wicket-taker in the 2024 season.

I take great pride in my role and am committed to building on this success for the club’s future.

Club History

Three Bridges Cricket Club has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1880, fostering a love for cricket in the community.

Our Mission

Our mission is to promote cricket as a sport for all ages, encouraging participation, teamwork, and sportsmanship within our community.

Committee Profiles

Meet our dedicated committee members who work tirelessly to ensure the club’s success and growth, each bringing unique skills and passion.

Coaching Staff

Our coaching staff is committed to developing players of all ages, providing expert guidance and support to enhance their skills and enjoyment of the game.

Contact Information

For inquiries, please reach out via our contact form or connect with us on social media to stay updated on club activities.

Join Us

Become a part of our vibrant community by joining Three Bridges Cricket Club, where you can enjoy cricket, social events, and lifelong friendships.

What is the history of the club?

The Three Bridges Cricket Club was established in 1880, with a mission to promote cricket in the local community. Over the years, we have grown significantly, fostering talent and encouraging participation in the sport among all age groups.

Who are the committee members and coaching staff?

Our committee consists of dedicated volunteers who manage the club’s operations, while our coaching staff includes experienced professionals committed to developing players’ skills and promoting a love for cricket.

What are the benefits of becoming a member?

Membership offers numerous benefits, including access to training sessions, participation in club events, discounts on venue hire, and the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community that shares a passion for cricket and sportsmanship.

How can I contact the club for more information?

You can reach us through our contact form on the website, or connect with us via our social media channels for the latest updates and inquiries regarding membership and events.

What events does the club organize throughout the year?

The club hosts various events, including social gatherings, tournaments, and fundraising activities. These events aim to strengthen community ties and provide enjoyable experiences for all members and their families.

Are there opportunities for sponsorship with the club?

Yes, we welcome sponsorship opportunities that support our mission. Interested parties can contact us for more details on how to get involved and contribute to the club’s growth.