The Farmer’s Field cricket ground in St Martin was created in 2005 by farmer Jim Perchard on a patch of former agricultural land which was previously used for growing potatoes.
It is the home of the Farmers’ Cricket Club, which was founded in 1977.
The field was voted into the ‘top ten’ club grounds in the UK after international cricket agency CricX asked its social media followers to send in pictures of their favourite pitches.
‘It’s generated significant interest and sparked a bit of controversy along the way,’ said the agency’s managing director, Simon Hirst. ‘So much so, we’re set to run another poll later this month, as a number of people have submitted pics after the deadline, which will be considered for the next round.’
Mr Perchard, who served as a States Senator for six years after being elected in 2005, said that he was ‘simply delighted’ that his ‘baby’ had been recognised as one of the UK’s ‘prettiest grounds’.
‘A lot of time and effort goes into supporting the Farmers experience. The club is well supported by its members and guests, which makes all the effort so worthwhile,’ he said.
‘We at the Farmers enjoy hosting cricketers of all standards and all ages and our hospitality is fast becoming legendary. We now attract many UK touring sides every season.
‘As is often the case, we get out of the club so much more than we put in.’
