Mark your calendars because this Sunday, July 5th, 2026, the Ousden Village Hall and playing field are transforming into a buzzing hub of activity for our community event: Let’s Play Sport! Whether you are a dedicated cyclist, a family looking for a fun day out, or someone who just enjoys a great BBQ in the sunshine, this event has something for absolutely everyone.
Best of all, all proceeds from the day are in aid of the Lidgate & Ousden Cricket Club and the Ousden Village Hall Rebuild Project. By joining in the fun, you are helping to invest directly back into the future of our local community facilities!
Here is the fully updated line-up and schedule for the day.
🚴 The Morning Challenge: Cycling Sportive
Kick off your Sunday with an energising ride through our beautiful local countryside.
- Routes: Choose between a 25-mile or a 50-mile route.
- Start Time: Rolling start from 10:00 AM.
- Location: Departing from Ousden Village Hall.
- Entry Fee: £20.
- Parking Info: To keep the start area safe and clear, parking is located at Ousden House at the bottom of the hill. Please park there and make your way up to the hall.
☕ For the Spectators: Pop-Up Cafe
Not riding? No problem! Bring the family early to cheer on the cyclists. Our hall cafe opens at 10:00 AM, serving fresh coffee, tea, and a delicious selection of homemade cakes. It is the perfect spot to relax and socialise while the riders clock up their miles.
🏆 The Main Event: Let’s Play Sport (Free Entry!)
From 12:00 PM until 5:00 PM, the action moves over to the Ousden playing field. Entry to the field is completely free, and we have a fantastic updated lineup of sports, demonstrations, and interactive coaching sessions.
⏱️ Activity Schedule:
- 12:00 PM – 16:00 PM | Ousden Carpet Bowls: Come along for demonstrations and a “have a go” session. This session is open to absolutely everyone, from complete beginners to seasoned pros. Come along and have a roll!
- 12:00 PM – 13:00 PM (until 13:15 if demand dictates) | Tag Rugby: A Tag Rugby demonstration followed by active coaching. These are free, fun introduction sessions designed to get children trying out new skills.
- 13:00 PM – 14:00 PM (until 14:15 if demand dictates) | Football Practice Match: An introductory session followed by hands-on “have a go” coaching.
- 14:00 PM onwards | Cricket: Coached “have a go” session running until demand dries up. (Please note: The start time may be pushed back slightly if Hockey is confirmed).
- To Be Confirmed | Hockey: If confirmed, Hockey will be inserted into the schedule or run right alongside the Cricket sessions.
🎈 Open All Day:
- Children’s Playground: Open all day for the little ones to burn off some energy.
🍔 Food, Drink & Socialising
If you are more of a spectator than an athlete, we have you covered. From 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, we will be firing up a sizzling BBQ and opening the fully stocked bar. Grab a burger, enjoy a cold drink, and soak up the community atmosphere.
Dust off your trainers, pump up your bike tyres, and bring your appetite. We cannot wait to see you there this weekend!