When historian Bill Scriven uncovered a vintage photo of Alveley Cricket Club’s first ever team dating back to 1908, it triggered a mad dash to organise belated centenary celebrations.

The village club had been in the dark about exactly when the club was founded and was stunned to find out it was more than 100 years old.

Officials now plan to celebrate the milestone, three years late, with a series of events in 2012 after the discovery of the photo.

Alveley Cricket Club chairman Richard Twigg said that the celebrations would tie in nicely with a big year for sport, with the summer set to also bring the 2012 Olympics in London and football’s European Championships.

Mr Twigg said: “The club has grown significantly over the years.

“The belated celebrations came about following a piece of research from local historian Bill Scriven, who discovered an original picture of when the club was located at Coton Hall, dated 1908.”

The cricket club has been busy organising events and activities to celebrate the centenary.

These include a bowls competition on the cricket square against the Squirrel Bowling Club, a Colliers Cup game against Highley, an annual golf competition, the President’s Day match against Martley and the 27th annual cricket sixes tournament.

The year of celebrations ends with a gala dinner at the Punch Bowl on November 10.

Mr Twigg said he hoped everyone who had been connected with the club over the years would be able to attend the events, in particular the gala dinner.

He said a full list of events would be available on the club’s website.

Last year the club was promoted and competes in Division Three of the Worcestershire County League.

“We have already signed a couple of new players and are always looking for new members,” said Mr Twigg.

“During 2012 every member will receive a free discount card as well as a centenary tie and T-shirt for junior members.”

For more information about Alveley Cricket Club and events to mark its centenary, call Mr Twigg on (01746) 781639 or visit www.alveleycc.co.uk