‘Shell’ takes Lifetime Achiever award
The focus for today’s feature on the Presentation Evening are three worthy Shropshire recipients of the ECB’s Cricket Collection Awards.
These include the Lifetime Achiever and Unsung Hero awards and were announced by Cricket Shropshire’s Schools and Community Programme Manager and EDI Officer Sacha Lee and presented by Shropshire skipper Charlie Home, Director of Community Cricket Hafez Rheman and Director of Safeguarding and Governance Jennie Good.
Lifetime Achiever – Adrian Shelley (Shifnal CC)
Sacha said: “There are few volunteers in the country as deserving of recognition as Adrian “Shell” Shelley, whose devotion to Shifnal Cricket Club spans more than 43 years of selfless, unpaid service.
A former player, captain, and now long-serving groundsman, Adrian has poured countless hours – estimated at over a quarter of his adult life – into caring for the ground, maintaining facilities, and supporting every aspect of club life.
“Under his stewardship, Shifnal’s ground has become one of the finest in Shropshire, regularly hosting National Counties matches and admired by players and visitors alike.
“Testimonials describe him as ‘Mr Shifnal Cricket Club’ – a man whose quiet leadership, skill, and humility have shaped generations of players and volunteers.
“His efforts extend far beyond Shifnal; as a mentor and advisor to grounds teams across Shropshire, he has been instrumental in raising the standard of cricket facilities countywide.
“Whether walking behind a mower, leading major projects like pavilion rebuilds, or guiding new Pitch Advisors, Adrian’s passion and generosity have left an enduring legacy.
Quite simply, Shifnal Cricket Club – and Shropshire cricket as a whole – would not be what it is today without Adrian’s extraordinary commitment and love for the game.”
Unsung Hero – Ellen Hassell (St Georges CC)
Sacha said: “For more than twenty years, this remarkable lady has been the heartbeat of St Georges Cricket Club, faithfully scoring both home and away fixtures across every level — from the 1st XI through to the 6th, fun days, and even the St Georges and Shropshire Disability teams.
“Her commitment, accuracy, and reliability are second to none, and her presence has become part of the very fabric of the club.
“Always there, pen in hand and smile on her face, she represents everything that’s special about grassroots cricket. We’re incredibly proud to recognise her outstanding service and hope there are many more games for her to score in the years ahead.”
Inspired to Play – James Churms (Pontesbury CC)
Sacha read out the citation which said: “James has been a breath of fresh air at our club, bringing humour, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for helping young players grow.
“Since joining our coaching team last winter, he’s made an immediate impact — first supporting our indoor junior programme and then leading our U13 and U15 boys’/mixed teams through the outdoor season.
“Under his guidance, the U15s went on to win the Regional Central West Division, showing not only impressive skill but an outstanding sense of teamwork and mutual support.
“James has a wonderful ability to keep his coaching simple and effective, encouraging players to think for themselves and solve problems on the field — developing both their cricket and confidence.
“At a time when volunteers are hard to come by, James’s commitment and positive influence have been a true gift to the club, inspiring our young players to play, enjoy, and believe in themselves.”
James was unable to attend on the night, his award will be passed on to him.
Pictures courtesy of Brian Clarke at Kidz In Focus contact brian.clarke@kidzinfocus.co.uk