Emmerdale stars went in to bat for the mayor’s charity.
Actors Chris Chittell, Joe Warren and Pasha Bocarie teamed up with behind-the-camera production staff from the Yorkshire soap for a cricket match in support of fundraising by Mayor of Kirklees Clr Jim Dodds.
The actors behind the characters Eric Pollard, Jacob Gallagher and Rakesh Kotecha turned out at Clayton West Cricket Club on Sunday to take on a team representing Kirklees’ first citizen, Clr Dodds.
At least 200 people came out in the hot, sunny weather to help boost the mayor’s charity cause, the Royal British Legion.
It looked at first like the mayor may have a walk over on his hands as the showbiz team arrived only a few minutes before stumps.
Chris, Joe and Pasha made up for their late arrival by greeting fans with a laugh and a joke before the 11-a-side Twenty20 match got underway.
The mayor’s team included players from Clayton West and Shelley cricket clubs.
Mr Chittell is well known for his charity work and has taken part in dozens of cricket matches over the years.
“We started playing in them because to me it’s the best way of making money for brilliant causes and everyone gets to have a bit of fun at the same time,” he said.
“Of course we always fancy our chances. The actors have taken time out of their weekend to come and play, with Pasha staying up here instead of going back home to London, but we don’t mind at all.”
Referring to an episode in 2015 in which Eric Pollard threatened the wife of Robert Sugden with a cricket bat he joked: “Eric’s certainly very good with a bat.”
Money was raised through donations, a raffle and a charity auction, with prizes including hampers and a mayoral cricket shirt signed by the Emmerdale team.
Clr Dodds said: “It’s the first time that the Emmerdale cast have helped raise money for the mayor’s charity so I’m really appreciative of that.
“I phoned Chris up and he agreed immediately. I hope that what we raise can help stop people suffering from the physical and mental injuries sustained through active service.”
The match ended in an honourable draw.
