THE Worcestershire Ambassadors hosted their annual cricket day last week, raising money for two Worcester charities.

More than 250 ambassadors and their guests enjoyed lunch and afternoon tea in the Chestnut Marquee and cheered Worcestershire to victory over Nottinghamshire in a Royal London One Day Cup group match at New Road.

Also present were representatives of the Ambassadors’ charities for 2019, St Paul’s Hostel and Worcester Community Trust, who will be the beneficiaries of a range of events held by the organisation throughout the year.

Chairman Kevin Powell handed membership certificates to new Ambassadors and presented retiring director Steve Hunt with a plaque in recognition of his six years’ service.

Worcestershire CCC chief executive Matt Rawnsley also gave a speech to attendees.

Mr Powell said: “This was our most successful cricket day so far. We were delighted to see Ambassadors and their friends enjoying a great day out, and victory for Worcestershire, and to have raised £8,500 for our charities.

“This event is the perfect example of what the Ambassadors is all about as our mission is to promote Worcestershire as a great place to live, work and play.”

The Worcestershire Ambassadors are a group of individuals from business and community groups who join forces to promote the county and raise funds for good causes.

This year, the group is raising funds for Worcester Community Trust and St Paul's Hostel.

The community trust runs six community centres in the Worcester providing crucial facilities for community use, activities & services for people of all ages including those who are socially isolated, lonely, victims of domestic abuse and members of the local community.

St Paul's Hostel has provided shelter and support to homeless and vulnerable people for over 40 years, as well as providing support to those with drug, alcohol or mental health issues.

Throughout 2019, the Worcestershire Ambassadors will be hosting a range of events to raise money for their chosen charities, including their annual Strictly Worcestershire, which will be held on May 23 at the Chateau Impney in Droitwich.

The event features couples from across the county who are each raising money for charity, including Worcester News reporter Grace Walton.