Stars love new Herm cricket site

A YEAR ago it was Moss Field, where cows grazed happily against a sunny backdrop. Now it is Herm International Cricket Ground and its opening for the Lord's Taverners annual celebrity cricket match was a great success.

The first ball was bowled by former England captain Mike Gatting, who was impressed by the island as the setting for the match.

'It is a great pleasure to be here,' he said. 'We are grateful to everyone on Herm for the huge amount of work that has gone in. It is a fabulous place and this is a lovely ground with amazing scenery.'

The site was transformed over just 10 months thanks to the hard work of island gardeners Brett Moore and James Cordingley, helped over winter by Mark Latter and Darren Gwynne.

Actress Lorraine Chase has been involved in the charity event for years. 'I opened the first event in Sark 13 years ago and it's so lovely to be here now in Herm.'

TV star Chris Tarrant was overjoyed to be on the winning team. 'It's a beautiful site. Looking at the view, you could be anywhere in the world. It's been a fantastic way to raise money and improve the quality of children's lives.'

EastEnders actor Steve McFadden first visited the Channel Islands 24 years ago to film Bergerac. This was the first time he'd been back and his first visit to Herm. Steve does a lot for charity but is new to the Lord's Taverners.

'This is the best charity event I have ever been involved in,' he said. 'I played cricket loads as a kid. Then I played a charity cricket match for EastEnders seven years ago and dislocated my shoulder. I haven't played since, but I'll definitely get back into it now.'

Another star of the soap, Perry Fenwick, was asked to come to the event for the past four years, but work commitments always got in the way. But this time he was determined to attend.

'Lord's Taverners is a great institution and Herm is a stunning location. And now it is officially an international cricket ground, which is fantastic. We've had a great day and I'll be back, without a doubt.'

Ex-EastEnder Ricky Groves first visited Herm years ago for a day trip. When asked to come back and play, he jumped at the chance.

'I love the cricket pitch. The island is much easier to get to than Sark and it is a picture-postcard setting.'

Guernsey's new Lt-Governor, Air Marshal Peter Walker, said: 'We couldn't ask for a more perfect environment. I'm so pleased with the effort that has gone into the pitch and the event.

'It is a positive contribution to the island and it is a pleasure to be a part of it.'

Lord's Taverners regional chairman Derek Shepherd was more than happy with how the event had unfolded.

'Everyone said it couldn't be done, but today has proved it can. And now this field rivals any cricket pitch in the world for scenery.'

Derek was instrumental in getting the celebrities on board and looking after their requirements.

'Everyone has taken time out from extremely busy schedules to be at this inaugural event on Herm.'

Having got off to such a good start, Herm International Cricket Ground has a bright future ahead.

'Now everyone will want to come here,' said Derek. 'This is the beginning of a long association with Herm for many years to come.'