Sunday marked a very special day at New Road, as the Club celebrated seventy years since the opening of the iconic Ladies Pavilion.
On the 26th April 1956, the Pavilion opened its doors for the very first time, in what proved otherwise be the start of a historic existence at the Club.
Originally opened due to the strict policy that forbade women from entering the Old Pavilion (now known as the Graeme Hick Pavilion), the Pavilion has since become engrained in Worcestershire history, standing as one of the most iconic pillars of the ground for 70 years.
Known for serving a delightful array of homemade cakes, tray bakes and scones, the volunteers are always looking for new members to help strengthen the team for each matchday.
Run by a group of around 20 volunteers, the Pavilion is open for first three days of every County Championship match, as well as welcoming members and visitors through it’s doors for every Metro Bank One Day Cup fixture.
Funds raised are split into various allocations, with some money going back into the Club itself, whilst this winter saw the Pavilion undergo vital refurbishments to the roof and the exterior of the building to ensure its longevity.
Each year, the group also donate generously to the Jean Price Bursary, which helps young cricketers source kit and equipment – including a certain Josh Tongue, who was one of the earliest beneficiaries of the scheme back in 2013.
Jane Quinn, Treasurer of the Ladies Pavilion since 2023, says the history behind the Ladies Pavilion is one of the driving factors why the volunteers are so keen to maintain its integrity.
“It is one of the longest standing traditions within the Club, and we are very proud to play a small but important part in the Worcestershire history.
“We all love the tradition and want to be here for a very long time to come, so we will keep doing what we can to ensure we can celebrate a few more milestones yet.
“We are one of the only, if not the only Ladies Pavilion left in the country, so will do all we can to extend our legacy!”
Members and supporters are welcome to visit the volunteers and donate wherever possible to the worthy cause.
Happy 70th to the Ladies Pavilion, and here’s to many, many more!
