Legendary West Indies cricketer to appear at Preston Caribbean Carnival fundraiser

L-R: Andy Roberts, Michael Holding, Colin Croft and Joel Garner — Colin, third from left, was part of a quarter of fast bowlers including (L-R) Andy Roberts, Michael Holding and Joel Garner

This show has been postponed until later in the year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Former West Indies and Lancashire cricketer Colin Croft is set to appear at a fundraising dinner for the Preston Caribbean Carnival.

Colin, who was a fast bowler for the West Indies during the late 1970s and early 1980s, will make an after dinner speech at the event in April.

Known for his aggressive delivery of bouncers, Colin still holds the record for the best Test Innings figures for the West Indies. In 1982 he controversially took part in a rebel tour of apartheid South Africa and was banned from international cricket until 1989. Since retiring from playing, he commentates on cricket and has appeared as an analyst for BBC’s Test Match Special and Sky Sports.

During his after dinner speech Colin will talk about his career in cricket and reveal his reasons for touring apartheid South Africa.

Colin Croft — Colin will lift the lid on his playing career

Event organiser Judith Hamilton said: “Many people are unaware that the Caribbean Carnival is entirely self-funding and we receive no financial assistance from the Council.

“Each year the cost of putting on carnival is in excess of £30,000. Money is raised throughout the year through various events. We also seek sponsorship from local companies and apply for grants from various sources such as Arts Council for England.

“This year the Committee is organising a live reggae show on Moor Park on Saturday 6 June, which is set to feature major international artists. The cost of this event has made the raising of funds even more important.

“We would appeal to anyone and everyone to attend what will be a hugely enjoyable evening with Colin.”

The fundraiser will take place on Saturday 18 April at Preston Masonic Hall. It will start with a welcome drink of Caribbean rum punch and a performance from Preston Steel Connection steel band, followed by a three-course meal. After Colin’s speech there will be a raffle and dancing until midnight.

Tickets – which are £40 per head or £380 for a table of ten – are available from Jalgos Sports and Social Club or by emailing Judith at judith@prestoncarnival.co.uk.

Any businesses who would like to donate a prize for the raffle can also email Judith.

Read more: What’s on in Preston

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