A Northamptonshire cricket stalwart who helped establish his club almost 40 years ago has been honoured at Lord's for his dedication to the grassroots game.

Martin Pettit, aged 67, was named one of 11 2026 MCC Community Cricket Heroes from nominations across the UK.

Martin founded Bold Dragoon Cricket Club in Northampton in 1987, with the club taking its name from the local pub where its founding members drank.

He served as captain and secretary for its first 10 years and has been chairman since 2001.

MCC Community heroes during Day 4 of England v Pakistan Test Match at Lord’s, Aug 30 2026 (Photo: Jed Leicester / MCC)

placeholder image — MCC Community heroes during Day 4 of England v Pakistan Test Match at Lord’s, Aug 30 2026 (Photo: Jed Leicester / MCC)

The club initially played on council pitches but has since established its own ground, pavilion, matted wicket and nets, much of which members have built or installed themselves.

Investment in junior cricket has also seen Bold Dragoon establish teams for under-11 boys, under-12 boys and under-11 girls.

Martin's contribution earned him a trip to Lord's during England's Test against Pakistan, where the Community Cricket Heroes were guests of MCC president Ed Smith.

Martin said: “When I first heard I had won I was shocked! But I am very pleased and proud to have been recognised by MCC and The Cricketer.

“But the real joy is volunteering at my club. The thing I enjoy most is preparing a wicket.”

The Community Cricket Heroes initiative was launched in 2023 by MCC and The Cricketer to recognise volunteers who go above and beyond to keep grassroots clubs thriving.

Ed Smith said the winners' dedication was “exactly what keeps the game alive in communities up and down the country”.