Club Chaplain appointed

Mersey Rose Recreationals Cricket Club is please to announced the appointment of its first-ever club chaplain, marking a significant and progressive step for the grassroots game.

The role has been taken up by Gail Rose, an LGBTQ+ rights advocate and a lay preacher within the United Reformed Church. Gail joined the club midway through the 2025 season, with her first matches coming at the Pride in Cricket pro-disability festival — a fitting introduction that reflected both her values and the inclusive ethos of the club.

The role of a club chaplain is to offer an independent source of pastoral support and care. This includes providing confidential, non-judgmental pastoral and spiritual support for the holistic wellbeing of everyone connected with the club — players, staff, volunteers, and their families — irrespective of faith or belief. A chaplain acts as a supportive presence, a listening ear, and, where appropriate, a link to wider faith communities.

By appointing an official chaplain, Mersey Rose Recreationals becomes one of only a small number of grassroots cricket clubs to do so — a move very much in keeping with the club’s long-standing pioneering spirit.

The club hopes that other chaplains may join in the future, with the long-term ambition of developing a multi-faith chaplaincy team. The club is proudly welcoming to people of all faiths and none, and this appointment reflects a commitment to ensuring that everyone associated with the club feels supported, valued, and included.

Speaking about her new role, Gail said: "As club Chaplain I want to support and encourage all club members, of all faiths or no faith. Chaplaincy for me is about being an approachable and supportive presence for everyone at Mersey Rose Recreationals Cricket Club, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs. “I want to walk alongside you… as well as playing alongside you… offering a listening ear and a caring heart. Whether you need someone to celebrate with in times of joy, a shoulder to lean on, or just a quiet moment of reflection, I am here for you. I thank the club for offering this role of Chaplaincy to me. I look forward to strengthening relationships and helping to foster a welcoming and compassionate environment for all.”

Anna Page, Club Secretary and softball captain, welcomed the news. She said: "This appointment says a lot about who we are as a club. We’ve always tried to look after the whole person, not just the cricketer, and Gail embodies this completely. Her presence adds another layer of care, compassion and inclusivity to our club, and we’re incredibly proud to be one of the few grassroots clubs taking this step".