As traditional as the game of village cricket is the afternoon tea.
Teas are usually provided by the wives/girlfriends/families of the players.
I was truly daunted by my first cricket tea, but with a little help and a bit of practice I now have it down to a pretty fine art.
Here are some tips to get you started:
The tea rota is on the noticeboard in the clubhouse. If you are interested in providing a tea, please add your name to the preferred date and let me know.
My contact details are on the noticeboard or printed in the yellow fixture booklet. Any help is greatly appreciated and really spreads the workload.
If, for any reason, the game is cancelled the team captain or myself will let you know.
I usually shop on Friday evening, having checked the weather forecast first!
I cater for about 30 people (15 on each team), and like to be in the clubhouse setting up by 3.30pm.
Check the number of overs that have been played to gauge how quickly you need to get ready.
If you are in any doubt just ask one of the players waiting to bat. They are always very happy to help!
The first thing I do is put sufficient water in the urn and put it on.
Lay out your selection of afternoon tea, putting a pile of plates at one end, cups at the other. I also have a jug of squash in case not everyone is having tea.
I usually provide a mixture of savouries, sandwiches and cakes.
Savouries might include mini pork pies, sausage rolls, samosas, cocktail sausages, pizzas etc.
Sandwiches – three loaves of bread made into two fillings such as ham, egg, tuna etc. By the way, apparently the crusts are meant to be cut off!
A selection of four family-sized cakes – sponge, scones, traybake.
Sometimes I add a dip with cucumber, carrot sticks and pepper.
Cheese and crackers are popular too.
I always have a plate of fruit (watermelon, grapes, strawberries) and a couple of bowls of crisps.
You will also need a pint of milk.
Once teas are finished and play has resumed the washing up needs to be done.
I do it by hand rather than use the dishwasher, but it’s up to you.
All plates, cutlery, mugs, glasses etc need to be washed, dried and put away. I always take my own washing up kit.
Wipe down all the tables, work surfaces, sweep the kitchen floor if necessary etc.
Please make up two jugs of squash and leave them in the fridge for the next drink break.
Most importantly, don’t forget to be reimbursed your tea money before you go. You will receive £40.
I really enjoy providing cricket teas and hope you do as well. Your delicious afternoon tea will be thoroughly appreciated by all the players, umpires, scorers and spectators.
Should you have any questions my number is available from the clubhouse noticeboard or is printed in the yellow fixture booklets.
Good luck and here’s to a cricket-filled summer!
Thank you for your help.
Lucy Donovan
Use the form below if you’d like to get in touch with Lucy: