Surrey County Cricket Club, with the support of Defence Relationship Management (DRM), committed to the Armed Forces Covenant last month (10 April).
The signing of the Covenant reinforces Surrey’s dedication to ensuring that those who serve or have served, along with their families, are treated fairly and have access to opportunities within the Club’s operations.
The Club first signed the Covenant eight years ago in 2017.
The signing ceremony saw Club staff and members of the Armed Forces community join the signatories, Steve Elworthy, Chief Executive of Surrey CCC, and Major General Mark Lancaster, Director Reserves of British Army, in the Long Room at the Kia Oval.
Surrey CCC has a proud history of supporting the military, working closely with the Tri-Services to integrate serving personnel into the matchday deployments, liaising with Tickets for Troops to provide access to various fixtures in the calendar.
Recently, the Club also announced a new partnership with the White Ensign Association – a charity that works with current and retired members of the Armed Forces, offering them guidance and support with all aspects of the transition to civilian life including employment, pensions, compensation, and financial wellbeing.
The Kia Oval continues to host military bands at major international fixtures, enhancing the matchday experience, while the iconic bell from HMS Illustrious takes centre stage at the start of each international day of cricket. In 2018, Surrey organised a work trip to Ypres, honouring military history, and has also supported the National Army Museum in previous years.
Steve Elworthy, Chief Executive of Surrey CCC: “The Club has a long-standing and proud history of supporting the Armed Forces community and re-signing the covenant speaks to our continued commitment towards those who serve or have served the nation.
“We are looking forward to collaborating with serving and former members of the Armed Forces to make sure that the Kia Oval is one of the safest and most welcoming venues for supporters to enjoy
