THE Sherfield on Loddon Cricket Club played host to a testimonial cricket match on Sunday, July 16, in memory of a local cricket player who recently lost his battle against Myeloma cancer.

Friends and family gathered to remember Chris Swift who had an enduring impact in the community.

The event was organised by his wife, Wendy, as a way to honour his life and raise funds for St Michael’s Hospice, which had provided care for Chris during his final days.

In total, an astounding £3,924 was raised for the hospice.

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The turnout was remarkable, with more than 120 individuals joining to support the cricket match.

The teams were comprised of 24 players hailing from Sherfield on Loddon, Rotherwick ITW, and Basingstoke Cricket Clubs, all places where Chris had played at various points in his life.

Amid the camaraderie, a barbecue sizzled, a raffle excited attendees, and an auction added an extra layer of excitement.

The afternoon witnessed friendly cricket battles, culminating in the victory of the 'Swifty Select XI' team over Sherfield on Loddon Cricket Club.

Remarkable raffle prizes had been procured for the event, including four Hampshire Cricket tickets courtesy of Hampshire Cricket Club, a generous afternoon tea donation from Audleys Wood, and a watch and colouring book offered by Just Love Studio in Hook.

The two most valuable items, a cricket bat donated by Chase and a two-night stay from Wingate Electrical, were auctioned successfully, raising a combined total of more than £500.

The generous donations of drinks from Waitrose, as well as monetary support from Sherfield on Loddon parish council and M3 Automation, were instrumental in making the day a resounding success.

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Wendy expressed her joy at the outcome.

She said: "The testimonial went beyond my expectations. The idea came to us on the day Chris passed away, and I never thought it would become a reality. But we made it happen.

"The success of the day was a tribute to Chris and also a way to support St Michael’s Hospice, where he received exceptional care in his final days.

"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Graham Hill, Adi Nixon, Jon Gibson, Kyle Frost, and Graham Hooper – their unwavering support made this day possible. It was evident that everyone had a joyful time, and I believe Chris would have cherished being surrounded by loved ones. We're hopeful to continue this tradition next year."

Situated in Basingstoke, St Michael’s Hospice receives around 16 per cent of its funding from statutory sources. As an independent charity, they must raise £14,000 daily to sustain their mission of offering compassionate care to individuals in North Hampshire facing life-limiting illnesses, requiring end-of-life support, or navigating bereavement.