On Saturday, 27th September, Oxshott Village Sports Club played host to a memorable clash between the Barmy Army XI and The Parachute Regiment XI – with the day dedicated to raising funds for three remarkable charities.
The action began in spectacular fashion, as members of The Parachute Regiment smashed not one but two Guinness World Records. Captain William Giddings completed an astonishing 51km run before charging in to bowl the opening delivery, while fellow captains Oskar Kolk and Tom Shaw ran a full marathon – in full cricket kit – before striding out to open the batting.
Adding to the buzz, a lively six-a-side tournament warmed up the crowd before the main T20 fixture. While the result of the headline match mattered to the players, the real victory lay in the records broken and the vital funds raised.
The event proudly supported three charities dedicated to the welfare of past and present members of The Parachute Regiment and Airborne Forces: Support Our Paras, The Churchill Lines Foundation, and The Alex Fairey Memorial Fund.
Together, these organisations provide millions of pounds’ worth of funding to soldiers and veterans – whether supporting those injured on operations, helping individuals facing hardship after leaving service, or offering care for health challenges later in life. They also play a crucial role in day-to-day welfare, providing pastoral care and support for paratroopers and their families.
This was more than just cricket – it was a celebration of endurance, camaraderie, and community, all in the name of a cause that truly matters.
To find out more about the event, click here.
