Whitburn, Cricket Club

Formed in 1862. The first match was against Monkwearmouth Eden Club. Whitburn were victorious by 35 runs. Many villagers joined the club around this time and were given permission to practice on ground in front of Whitburn Hall by Sir Hedworth Williamson, who was a keen cricket player. He later allowed part of his grounds to be used as a field for the Whitburn Cricket Club, making a stipulation that no gate money should be taken at matches. The roller for rolling the wicket was cast at Penshaw Iron Foundry in 1880 at a cost of £22. Sir Hedworth Williamson agreed to pay half. Whitburn won the Durham County League Championship in 1896 and 1898. In 1902 Whitburn were founder members of Durham County Senior League. In 1923 Whitburn won the Durham Senior League Championship. In 1964 West Indies Test star Lance Gibbs helped Whitburn win the Durham Senior League Championship with 126 wickets at 8.53 runs each. This remains a league record. The clubhouse is on Whitburn Road.