In a thrilling T20 cricket match on the spring Bank Holiday Sunday, the Barbados select eleven overcame the host club, Broomley CC, in Coalville, Leicester. Entitled A Lil Bit A Bim, this took place at the annual gathering of Barbadians and friends outside of London.
A scene set beautifully as warm rays of sunshine enveloped the lush green grounds, as stallholders hurriedly set out their stalls and punters built their gazebos ready for the day’s proceedings. What a day it was with the cricket match hugging centre stage, ably captained by the effervescent Richard Graham, with match commentary by Jeff Hinds, a veteran of these events. An atmosphere that resulted in the Bajan team running out winners.
After the game and presentation of trophies, the audience heard from Gloria Carter, Business Development Officer at BTMI, and High Commissioner Milton Inniss. They both complimented the NCBA on hosting the event and the importance of the organisation in bringing Barbadians, friends, and its members together, especially in a year of We Gathering.
Inniss announced that he would be demitting office in June and wished those present would continue supporting this event and the NCBA efforts. On behalf of the umbrella group, the newly appointed Chair of the National Council of Barbadian Associations, Dr Beverley Goring, presented him with a gift, as did London group Barbados Overseas Communities and Families Associations Chairperson Ashdine Greaves.
This was all a precursor to the finale with Peter Ram, the Soca maestro from Barbados. In a lively set that included a conga line around the ground, Ram kept the audience happy before they boarded the Transport to far-off places like Leeds, Oldham, Manchester, and Cheshire. They were able to enjoy the sounds of DJs Bajan Touch, Korz, and Coolbreeze.
We Gatherin UK was billed as a success and was ably supported by The Barbados Public Workers Credit Union, Export Barbados, and Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. The raffle proceeds will be donated to the Challenor Creative Arts and Training Centre in Barbados.
