Formed
in 1983 Palmers C.C. has come a long way since a few
friends disillusioned with the local Cricket scene sat
chatting over a beer about starting a new Cricket club.
From this small beginning a sociable friendly club evolved
where all members are encouraged to express themselves
in an open and positive environment.
Following a successful first season the club joined
the Brighton League in 1985 as well as continuing
with a full programme of Sunday friendly matches.
We were fortunate to play our home games in the beautiful
surroundings of Stanmer House, Stanmer Park. Although
the club flourished during the next few years the
pitch and changing facilities which were maintained
by the council deteriorated so badly that eventually
(with a heavy heart) in 1999 we left to become nomadic,
playing most "home" games on the outskirts
of Brighton at Braypool.
Around this time and despite our difficulties we
started a junior section - this was to prove a great
motivation for the future of our club.
In 2003 we moved to our new home at Hove Recreation
ground and for the first time took full responsibility
for the maintenance and preparation of the new cricket
square. This was a great achievement for our club
and a huge challenge for us as a self-funded club
to be able to purchase the necessary ground equipment
and materials that would be needed in order to be
able to produce and maintain a quality wicket.
Five years on, with help from the lottery "Awards
for all" scheme, a small grant from Brighton
and Hove council and hard work from members and especially
our head groundsman (Nigel Thomas), we are delighted with our progress.
Our pitch has played very well and is improving every
season. We are fortunate to share the excellent clubhouse
with modern facilities provided by Hove Rugby club
who have been very supportive. It's great to be able
to have a beer and a chat with our opponents after
the match at the ground!
In 2005 we realised a long held ambition when our
Saturday 1st XI Joined the Mid Sussex League immediately
winning promotion from the 3rd division as champions,
and immediately promoted to 1st division in 2007 .
This has enabled our Saturday 2nd XI to join the league
in 2006.
Our Sunday XI has an excellent selection of attractive
friendly matches and is an ideal environment for younger
players to be introduced to senior cricket.
We have a well-established tour of Cornwall and
Devon and also play a few mid week fixtures,
extending to some 20Twenty fixtures in 2008.
Our junior section is thriving and for the first
time in 2008 had 3 youth sides. In 2010 they are playing at Under 11, Under
13 and Under 15.
We hold
regular indoor winter nets and outdoor practice sessions
at the Rec during the season as well as social and
fundraising events throughout the year.
Overall, the club has really matured without losing
its unique atmosphere.
Long may it continue!