Rec Club Gala Day is back this summer

A date for your diaries this summer – Driffield Town Cricket & Recreation Club has confirmed that its popular Gala Day will return in July after a four-year absence.

The family fun day will be held at the club’s Kings Mill Road ground on Sunday 2nd July, with the committee currently planning to organise a whole host of activities and attractions, some of which will bring back memories of galas gone by, whilst others will be completely fresh ideas as the annual fundraiser is rebooted.

Following the COVID-19 pandemic and the current cost of living crisis, Driffield Town Cricket & Recreation Club has taken a financial hit, particularly with events such as the gala and other functions in the clubhouse unable to take place at various times over the last three years.

However, with big plans, and potentially a celebrity guest in the offing, Andy Inns, chairman of the club, is urging people from Driffield and the Wolds to come out and show their support for one of the town’s major sports clubs.

“We hope to have a traditional family fun day,” said Andy. “It is likely we will start with some junior cricket during the morning, along with a car boot sale and refreshments, such as bacon sandwiches, on offer.

“Also in the morning, it’s hoped we can run a junior football tournament, followed by a senior football tournament in the afternoon.

“We’re planning to hire three or four inflatables for children and there is potential for some funfair rides.
“It’s hoped some of the junior sports clubs, such as gymnastics, judo and karate, and dance clubs, will come down and perform.

“We would also like local musicians to perform throughout the day on an open mic basis.

“Other ideas we’ve had include a dog show, a fire engine, archery and a climbing wall to attract people to come along.

“In terms of refreshments, there will be cream teas and the bar will be open, therefore no one will be able to bring their own alcohol along – support the club instead.

“We’re hopefully going to secure an appearance from a famous soap star and there is likely to be photo opportunities for anyone who wants one.”

Long-term, Andy and the committee are hopeful there will be further development at the club, enabling it to offer more in terms of the functions and events it can host.

He told the Wolds Weekly that Driffield Town Cricket & Recreation Club is a place for the whole community.

“The club ran at a loss in 2022 and if that continues, the future of it comes into doubt,” said Andy.

“Therefore, we need to start raising lots and lots of money, starting with the resurrection of the gala day and hopefully we’ll be lucky with the weather.

“We want the club to be part of the community and we’re currently hosting a warm space on Tuesdays and Fridays.

“Around 20 people are coming along, having a laugh, a chat and nice food, so we would class that as a success and would like to see more families there.

“We have other plans to open the clubhouse on a more regular basis and bring in people from outside the club to support it.”

For more details about the Gala Day, or for any other information about the club, call Andy on 07790 243703.