Alsager Cricket Club chairman, Alan Stancliffe, is preparing to host one of the busiest weekends of the year with the Alsager Beer and Gin Festival which raises money for the local community.

But memories of the day the he visited Buckingham Palace with his wife Kay for a garden party are still in his mind.

(Photo: Alan Stancliffe)

The former headteacher and talented sportsman has lived in Alsager for 38 years, first coming to the town when he trained as a teacher at the former teacher training college.

Alan and Kay enjoyed a day in London earlier this year. (Photo: Alan Stancliffe)

Alan spends a fair amount of time at the cricket club in Fairview Avenue and every year, he and his wife Kay and Jason Lockett organise a gin festival which raises around £26,000 for local charities.

Earlier this year in May Alan and Kay attended a garden party at Buckingham Palace.

The Huddersfield born cricketer has also spent 25 years coaching the junior section at the club which won promotion and celebrated its 150th year.

"It came out of the blue," said Alan earlier. "I got an email earlier this year then the invite came through the post. I was told I was getting a community award.

The King shakes hands at the Garden Party. (Photo: Alan Stancliffe)

"I've no idea what it's for - whether it's my contribution to cricket or education. I am chair of governors at Highfields School in Alsager and also a governor at another school in Staffordshire."

Crowds gathered at the Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. (Photo: Nub News)

He added: "We had a lovely high tea welcomed Camilla and Charles with God Save the King. The King circulated with his Beefeaters and guards.

"We walked round his lake, left and entered through the front gates which was a great experience."

By royal appointment - Alsager Cricket Club chairman has been invited to go to a Buckingham Palace garden party.

Alan hopes he and his wife might get the chance to speak to the King Charles and Queen Camilla.

He added: "We're very excited to receive the invite which is on behalf of others too and honoured to be invited."

Have you got any similar honours or awards? Email [email protected]

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