The Surrey Cricket Foundation are launching a series of women’s walking cricket festivals in response to growing demand across the county, following the success of the Old Woking OWLS.

Kim Price, walking cricket officer for Surrey Cricket Foundation, is leading the initiative to create more opportunities for women aged 50 and over to get involved in the sport.

Walking cricket in Surrey began in 2022 as an inclusive format of the game designed primarily for people aged over 50, regardless of experience. Since then, participation has grown rapidly. In 2025, there were 17 teams across the county, and in 2026 a further nine teams are expected to launch, bringing the total to 26.

Old Woking Cricket Club established the first all-women’s walking cricket team – the OWLS – in 2025, and their success has driven significant interest from women across Surrey. Banstead and Holmbury St Mary launched women’s teams in 2025, with more clubs expected to follow in 2026.

Price is being supported in this initiative by Sara Davies, captain of the OWLS, and Kevin Dicks of Cobham Cavaliers.

Davies said: “I am convinced that we need separate teams for men and women in walking cricket.

“Women do not have the same strength as their male counterparts and, more importantly, often have less competitive experience.

“Most women over 60 first encountered cricket informally, as historically there were limited opportunities to play the game at school.”

To support the growth of the women’s game, three all-women walking cricket festivals will take place during the 2026 season.

The first festival will be held at Old Woking Cricket Club on May 15, followed by festivals at East Molesey on July 29 and Banstead on August 12.

These festivals will offer a mix of match play, skills development, and social opportunities in a relaxed and supportive environment.

For general enquiries, email: [email protected]