Many congratulations to Martin Jones of Whitchurch CC, who has won the SCCL Brian Kitson Lifetime Achievement award for 2026.
A true one-club man, a lifelong servant of Whitchurch Cricket Club, and a thoroughly deserving recipient of the Shropshire County Cricket League Lifetime Achievement Award.
Few individuals can claim to have dedicated as much of their lives to one cricket club as Martin Jones has to Whitchurch Cricket Club.
From his earliest days as a teenager representing the club, through a distinguished playing career and into decades of tireless work behind the scenes, Martin has been a constant presence at Whitchurch CC and has played an enormous part in shaping the club into what it is today.
An accomplished swing bowler and hard-hitting yet elegant batter in his own right, Martin's ability was recognised at county level when he represented Shropshire County Cricket Club in 1974. He went on to play an instrumental role in Whitchurch's memorable 1981 League Championship-winning side, a significant achievement in the club's history. In this season he scored over 550 runs and took more than 20 wickets.
However, Martin's contribution to Whitchurch Cricket Club extends far beyond his achievements on the field. Long after his playing days, his commitment and dedication have remained undiminished. He played a major role behind the scenes in the club's more recent successes in 2017 and 2024, demonstrating that his influence on Whitchurch cricket has spanned generations.
Importantly, Martin's legacy is not simply about the work he continues to undertake himself, but also the knowledge and expertise he is passing on to the next generation of club volunteers. Drawing on decades of practical experience, he willingly shares his understanding of ground preparation, pitch maintenance and the countless tasks required to keep a cricket club running successfully. By mentoring and encouraging others to become involved, Martin is helping to ensure that the standards, dedication and pride he has demonstrated throughout his life will continue long into the future.
It is perhaps this unwavering commitment, often carried out quietly and without recognition, that best defines Martin's remarkable service. While players, captains and teams may come and go, Martin has remained a constant, giving countless hours of his time simply for the love of his club and the game of cricket. From county cricketer and league champion to dedicated groundsman, mentor and lifelong volunteer, Martin Jones embodies everything that is special about grassroots cricket. His contribution cannot simply be measured in runs, wickets, trophies or championships, but in the countless hours, years and decades he has devoted to Whitchurch Cricket Club. Equally important is his determination to pass on his experience, ensuring that his contribution will be felt by generations who may never have had the privilege of watching him play.
The Shropshire County Cricket League is therefore delighted to recognise Martin Jones with its Brian Kitson Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating an extraordinary contribution to Whitchurch Cricket Club. A true one-club legend, whose greatest legacy is not only what he has achieved, but what he continues to inspire others to achieve. Congratulations, Martin Jones – SCCL Lifetime Achievement Award Winner.
Many thanks to Liam O’Neill and Richard Oakley of Whitchurch CC for helping to write this article and for providing the photographs.
