Words: Anthonia Ochefu
Video: Aditya Tolia
Four counties – Essex, Kent, Surrey, and Middlesex – collaborated on 29 July 2024 at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park to celebrate physical activity in Cricket4London’s ‘London Loop’.
The initiative encompassed 33 boroughs that share Cricket4London’s vision of making physical activity more accessible in the nation’s capital.
Across the 3 days, more than 60 kids ranging from ages 10-12 from various schools across the boroughs had the opportunity for free to partake in various sports and activities such as cricket, football, swimming, tennis, mountain biking, BMX biking, rowing, drama, art, and athletics as well as a stadium tour.
The event gave the kids the opportunity to meet new people and make new friendships in a safe and inclusive space but also to take part in sports that they might not have had the chance to do so thus far.
In the short space of time, what was clear to see was a group of kids building each other up, being supportive of one another and of course some really good sports talent on show.
They were willing to learn and able to pick up instructions very quickly. Their enthusiasm never wavered and they were constantly looking forward to the next activity.
It was captivating to see what the collaboration and expertise of the four counties with the backing of the ECB can do to combat the issue of limited physical activity and sport in some of London’s most deprived areas.
Essex Cricket are continuously striving to contribute to building bonds and stronger community ties through cricket and this initiative is just one of many.
