Special Recognition award for Craig
Three more awards from the Cricket Shropshire Presentation Evening held at The Shropshire – including a Special Recognition Award.
This was made to the family of Craig Sims from Madeley CC who sadly died earlier in the Autumn. The other two awards featured here were part of the Shropshire ECB Cricket Collective Awards.
All these awards were announced by Cricket Shropshire Chair and presented by the Board’s Director of Safeguarding and Governance Jennie Good.
Special Recognition – Craig Simms (Madeley CC)
Adrian said: “This year’s Special Recognition Award is presented in loving memory of Craig, whose dedication and generosity touched so many within both Madeley Cricket Club and the wider Shropshire cricket community.
“Craig gave so much of his time, energy, and heart to the game he loved, always ready to help anyone who needed support or guidance. He was a true force of nature – passionate, dependable, and endlessly kind.
“His passing has left a space that can never truly be filled, but his legacy lives on in the people and clubs he inspired.
“Craig truly embodied the spirit of cricket, and his memory will continue to shine brightly across Shropshire cricket for many years to come.
Game Changer – Frank Lloyd (O‘s )
Adrian said: “Frank has achieved something truly special – building a cricket club (The Flamingos) from the ground up with a clear vision to give young people under 18 the chance to play, learn, and thrive in the Shrewsbury Evening League.
“His team, made up of both experienced cricketers and complete newcomers, reflects his success in promoting the game to a wider audience.
“Frank has handled every detail himself – completing safeguarding training, securing insurance and sponsorship, arranging pitch hire, running social media (even earning a mention from @cricketdistrict’s 230k followers), and teaching his players scoring, umpiring, and league responsibilities.
“His aim has always been about more than just cricket – it’s been to build confidence, friendship, and maturity through playing in an adult league.
“The team’s remarkable second place finish in their debut season is a testament to his leadership and the spirit he’s inspired. Passionate, motivated, and inclusive, Frank has created a youth movement that’s breathing new life into community cricket.”
Safe Hands – Steve Brooks (Wellington CC)
Adrian said: “For the last two years, Steve Brooks has been the focal point of Safeguarding for Wellington CC, which is the largest club in Shropshire.
“From day one he has proactively striven to ensure that Wellington CC remains compliant as a club, both in terms of DBS completions and up to date club policies and procedures.
“His attention to detail is second to none. Never afraid to clarify and question where necessary but also to embrace any changes made by the Cricket Regulator making sure, he disseminates any changes to the rest of the Club effectively.
“Earlier in the season there was a medical emergency at Wellington, whereby a member of the opposing club suffered a cardiac arrest.
“Although not present at the event, he quickly reacted to notify Cricket Shropshire, reach out to any witnesses and club members signposting to mental health helplines, counselling services, and offering de-brief sessions.
“Wellington CC has been nominated as Club of the year. There is no doubt that Stephen’s contribution has been an integral part of that success, and he is well deserving of this year’s Safe Hands Award.”
Pictures courtesy of Brian Clarke at Kidz In Focus contact brian.clarke@kidzinfocus.co.uk