SOMERSET CCC received a visit from a special guest this week as Susann Savidge, Chair of the Somerset African Caribbean Network came to the Cooper Associates County Ground.

She was given a tour of the Ground by Somerset Cricket Foundation’s Community Activation Officer, Mustafa Shaikh and was also shown around the Somerset Cricket Museum.

Speaking on the day, Susann said: "I’ve come along today to learn about the Caribbean players who have contributed to cricket in Somerset and at this particular ground.

“I’m keen to learn about how their contribution has been marked, particularly this year because this is the 75th anniversary of Windrush. Whilst Somerset has a relatively small African Caribbean community, there is representation within our communities and there have been outstanding performances by Caribbean players here in Taunton and that makes up an important part of Somerset’s history."

Her visit coincides with Black History Month and Susann gave credit to the cricket club for how it has marked the occasion.

“We are now at the end of Black History Month, and I was delighted to see that Somerset County Cricket Club have been marking the occasion. It’s pleasing to see these Caribbean players elevated and recognised.

"It’s been brilliant to see the artefacts in the museum and the memorial gates. I loved what I experienced in the museum today and I think that could be developed as a learning opportunity to provide not just a visual experience but also taking on other aspects of the culture."

The Somerset African Caribbean Network is a community and campaigning network for:

  • People of African Caribbean origin
  • The parents/carers of young people and children of African Caribbean origin
  • The spouses/partners of Network members