I started at The Oval in 1998 – and have done a variety of different jobs at Surrey CCC, specialising in looking after Members and our accessibility. When I first got here, accessibility requirements were treated very differently so it’s been a labour of love getting to the standard we are at now.
Cricket wasn’t a part of my life at all really, until I started working here. However, in the 28 years I’ve been at the Kia Oval I’ve seen the incredible role that our sport can play in people’s lives. The love that I’ve seen people demonstrate for the game is amazing and getting to know what cricket means to people has been a real privilege.
For me, it’s the personal connection that I’m able to achieve with people. For instance, my job includes areas like facilitating the scattering of ashes for families who have had loved ones request that this happen at the Kia Oval. It will never stop being an extraordinary honour to be part of such an important time in a family’s life.
I’ve helped setup a Dementia Club at the Kia Oval, I run successful Carers’ Days every year and I’m always pushing to deliver new accessibility projects. For me, the crucial thing is showing people that you care, putting yourself in their shoes and ensuring that nobody feels a burden.
When I started at The Oval, I didn’t see women’s cricket. The progress I’ve seen in the last six years in particular is amazing, so come and join us!