26/08/2026
This Sunday is the Billy Allan Trophy Etown v Norcross. (Away at Norcross) 💙🏏
It’s always a brilliant day, shared by some amazing people. Family and friends coming together to play a bit of cricket, have a few b**rs, have a laugh, and, raise money for the MND Association.
MND is a truly horrendous disease. More than 5,000 people are living with it in the UK at any one time. Six people are diagnosed every single day, and six people lose their lives to it. There is still no cure. The lifetime risk of developing MND is around 1 in 300. (MND Association)
But ultimately, we meet every year to honour one person, Billy Allan. Uncle Bill to me.
Bill would have absolutely loved the Etown v Norcy days. His booming laugh, in stereo with my Dad’s, would have been the perfect soundtrack to what is always a glorious melee of noise, laughter, leather on willow and the sound of b**r glasses being filled.
I’d give anything to hear that laugh again. To hear the daft jokes. To feel those bone-crushing handshakes and bear-like hugs he gave.
That’s why we play these games.
First and foremost, we play to remember Bill. To keep his memory alive. To bring family and friends together, just as he would have wanted.
And then, in his memory, we try to do a little bit of good, raising money to help fund the fight against this horrendously cruel disease and, one day, hopefully find a cure.
Bill is deeply loved and hugely missed, but his memory continues to inspire us to come together, enjoy a great day and make new memories in his name. This year, we also remember Craig Dunkerley, the much-loved Dad of Norcross 1st XI captain Jamie, who we tragically lost to MND last year. Craig will be very much in our thoughts as we come together once again in memory of two very special men.
So, whatever the weather, whether you’re playing, watching, supporting, drinking, laughing or doing all of the above, thank you. From the absolute bottom of my heart.
There’s only one Billy Allan.
Up the Etown & Norcy boys. 💙🏏🍺
