Reman make name change to Sentinel

The decision to switch back to Sentinel Cricket Club – the club's name when formed in 1949 – has been warmly welcomed by players and members of the north Shrewsbury outfit following a series of meetings and discussions.

It stems from the recent closure of the Reman Sports & Social Club at the cricket club's Albert Road ground.

The name change has been ratified, with Sentinel's first team now preparing for the start of the Premier Division season at St Georges on April 23.

Club chairman Pete Ezard said there had been an option to continue as Reman Services for another season, but members had instead decided to change.

"There were a number of different names considered, but Sentinel was the one favoured," he said.

"It's been quite a tricky winter in terms of having to get things sorted with umbrella groups set up for the cricket and also the bowls clubs after what's happened with the social club – but the factory were comfortable with us using Sentinel.

"The name change has gone down really well, particularly with the people who have been connected with the cricket club for many years since the days when the club was previously known as Sentinel."

Due to its links with the Harlescott factory, the club has undergone several changes of identity since being established at Albert Road 67 years ago.

They became Rolls-Royce in 1957, switched to Perkins in 1984 and had been Reman Services since 2007.

On the field, Ezard stressed, Sentinel's future looks bright as the club attempt to go one step better than last year when they were pipped to the premier division title – and promotion to the Birmingham League – by Newport following a defeat on the final day.

Sentinel, whose first team will again be captained by Ed Ashlin, have bolstered their squad over the winter with two exciting additions – opening bat and wicketkeeperTom Matthews, an opening batsman and wicktetkeeper, from Worfield and all-rounder Joe Yapp has come on board from relegated Cound.

"We're looking to have another good go at it and we've got 15 or 16 lads vying for a place in the first team," said Ezard. "The club's in good shape with a healthy number of both seniors and juniors while we've also got a flourishing ladies side."

Members and friends can help get Albert Road ready for the new season when the club holds its annual NatWest Cricket Force day on Saturday, April 2.