Thorpey’s Bat & Chat
A free 12-week cricket and wellbeing programme for adults in Harrogate District.
Thorpey’s Bat & Chat is a friendly and supportive group that combines cricket coaching with relaxed wellbeing conversations, helping people improve their mental health while connecting with others.
The programme is open to anyone aged 18+ who may be experiencing low mood, poor mental wellbeing, or social isolation, or simply looking for a welcoming place to get active and meet new people.
You do not need any cricket experience – sessions are beginner-friendly and designed to be fun, inclusive and supportive.
What to expect
Each weekly session lasts around two hours and includes:
- A welcoming and supportive environment
- Beginner-friendly cricket activities and coaching
- A short break with refreshments
- Guided discussions and practical tools to support wellbeing
- An opportunity to meet new people and build connections
The sessions provide a safe and supportive space to get active, build confidence and talk openly about wellbeing.
Programme details:
Start date: Wednesday 6 May
Time: 4:00pm – 6:00pm
Location: Beckwithshaw Cricket Grounds, Pannal Road, Harrogate
The programme runs weekly for 12 weeks.
Who is it for?
Thorpey’s Bat & Chat is suitable for:
- Adults aged 18+
- People experiencing low mood, anxiety or social isolation
- Anyone wanting to improve their wellbeing through physical activity
- People interested in trying cricket in a friendly and supportive environment
No previous cricket experience is required.
Register Your Interest
Be part of this national initiative:
Thorpey’s Bat and Chat forms part of a national initiative inspired by the legacy of former England and Surrey cricketer Graham Thorpe, MBE.
Thorpey’s Bat and Chat has been made possible thanks to fundraising through “A Day for Thorpey”, a special event held at The Kia Oval on 1 August 2025 that celebrated Graham’s life.
Amanda Thorpe, wife of Graham Thorpe:
“We want to celebrate Graham and his memory, as well as remove some of the stigma around mental health, especially for men. Thorpey’s Bat and Chat will help to do just this. I had the chance to visit a Bat and Chat session last summer, and one of the participants told me it was the reason they got out of bed in the morning. That is very powerful, and it shows these sessions can give people the space to talk about their mental health, through an activity they love, and with a supportive group. We are so pleased to see the roll-out of Thorpey’s Bat and Chat sessions around the country and would really encourage you to give it a go if you’re struggling with your mental health.”