Club Officials
President – David Osborne
Following a chance meeting with Jimmy Cook, the Club’s then Captain, I joined Walton-on-Thames Cricket Club in 1974 and over a period of thirty years enjoyed a very successful playing career for all three senior teams, captaining the 2nd XI to the Surrey Championship Division 1 in 1990. Shortly after joining the Club, I became involved in its administration which led to lengthy spells as Fixture Secretary, Bar Chairman and Deputy Chairman before being invited to become Club Chairman in 2009. Following the retirement of Brian Turner in 2025, I was was elected President.
Joint Lead and Head of Ground – Graham Neale
Graham first played senior cricket for the club in 1967 and has been involved as a player and administrator ever since. A former 1st XI captain in the 80s, Graham has played League cricket for all four club elevens and held a variety of management positions. As Commercial Manager for the past ten years and now the Joint Lead of the Management Committee, he has been closely involved in managing sponsors and securing grant funding for some significant projects. Although very much in his twilight, Graham is still turning out for Surrey’s over 60s team.
Joint Lead & Head of Communications – Robert Murray
I joined Walton as a junior cricketer in 1974 and made over 500 appearances for the club at every level. I also had the honour of captaining both the 1st and 2nd XIs in the 1980s. Throughout my time at the club, I have been actively involved in all aspects of the running of the club, from Chair to Secretary, Treasurer and Head of Ground, as well as managing and coaching junior teams. I was also instrumental in setting up our Cygnets section for Under 5 to Under 9 age groups. Walton Cricket Club is part of my DNA and there are very few things I enjoy more than being at Ashley Park.
Head of Cricket – Oli Clarke
Oli has been a Walton member since joining as a junior in 2000, and has made 244 senior appearances for the club. He launched the 4th XI in 2012 and captained it until 2016, when he became Head of Cricket, responsible for planning and overseeing all cricket played at the club. He is also a Surrey Championship panel umpire.
Head of Women’s Cricket – Jo “Cookie” Cook
I have been involved in Walton-on-Thames Cricket Club for over 40 years as my father, Jimmy, was both Club Captain and President.
Since 2015, I have founded, managed and captained the club’s women’s section, known as “The Pens”. I have encouraged and championed the development of the women’s and girl’s pathway at the club from Under 11 and Under 15 through to women’s cricket across softball and pink ball league formats.
In addition to managing The Pens and Girls section, I have organised the club’s beer and wine festival, “Waltfest” and am a life member of the club.
Head of Finance – Mark Donnelly
I became involved in Walton over 15 years ago when the eldest of our 3 boys joined the club quickly followed by his younger brothers. I have helped with the junior age groups throughout and manage the current U16/U17 age group. I have played for the Over 40s and the 4th XI over the last few years but given advancing years I prefer to spend the weekends throughout the season watching my boys play for Walton. In my day job I am a COO for a live entertainment company.
Treasurer – Neil Cunliffe
I first became involved in the cricket club 15 years ago when my son joined the club as a junior.
I have really enjoyed visiting the club over the years and I was really keen to give something back and volunteer. I became the club’s Treasurer in 2024.
In my previous working career, I was an accountant for 33 years mainly in the real estate industry.
Club Secretary – Sheila Hawkins
I joined Walton-on-Thames CC’s Pen’s team in 2018 and, as an all-rounder, fully appreciate the importance of all aspects of playing the game. Since 2023, I have also filled the position of club secretary. An enthusiastic follower of the sport for many years, I am especially interested in helping to progress the women’s game and improving diversity and inclusion in general. In addition, I am training to become an umpire and have already officiated in a number of junior level matches.
Safeguarding Officer – George Cates
George has been part of the club since the age of 13, joining in 2008. Having made his way through the junior teams, he made his senior debut for the 4th XI in 2010. He has since captained the 4th XI, and Trust XI. George took over the role as Head of Juniors in 2018 and, as a qualified coach, spends his time at the club pushing our young players to follow a similar path to his.
Coaches
Head Coach – Rhythm Bedi
With 11 years of dedicated coaching experience, I am a Level 3 ECB qualified Head Coach with a passion for developing confident and high-potential cricketers. I am committed to a holistic coaching approach, focusing on nurturing each individual’s physical, technical, tactical, and mental game to help them reach their maximum potential.
My aim as a coach is to not only improve cricketing skills but also to instil a deep sense of confidence and understanding in players’ game. I believe that by focusing on the physical, technical, tactical, and mental aspects, every individual can maximise their potential and achieve their cricketing aspirations. I am passionate about guiding players on this journey and witnessing their growth both on and off the field.
Head of Junior Coaching - George Cates
George has been part of the club since the age of 13, joining in 2008. Having made his way through the junior teams, he made his senior debut for the 4th XI in 2010. He has since captained the 4th XI, and Trust XI. George took over the role as Head of Juniors in 2018 and, as a qualified coach, spends his time at the club pushing our young players to follow a similar path to his.
High Performance Coach – Brian Berthoud
Brian joined us in 2018 with over 20 years’ coaching experience. He is passionate about the all-round development of his players and aims to create a strong environment to help them succeed. Brian’s coaching journey and experience have enabled him to design programs which will help players both on and off the field.
Junior Coach – Tom Cates
Tom has been at Walton since 2008, when he joined our colts section. He has since played for various men’s teams, both on Saturdays and Sundays. In 2015 he won the Development League player of the season, and is now the lead coach for our Cygnets, where he excels in creating a fun and safe environment to learn the basics of cricket.