Chance to Shine hosted a special celebration at the House of Commons to mark reaching its four millionth child, Millie-May from Eastern Primary in Port Talbot. Supporters, donors and representatives from the 39 county cricket boards were all in attendance at the event on Tuesday 24 July.

A beaming Millie-May was presented with a certificate by England’s all-time leading run-scorer Alastair Cook, and 2017 World Cup winner Laura Marsh. 

In conversation with Lord King of Lothbury, Chance to Shine co-founder and former governor of the Bank of England, both Alastair and Laura highlighted the important work that Chance to Shine is doing to provide greater opportunities for children like Millie-May and other young people underrepresented in sport.

Those who attended the event also heard from those who directly benefit from the work of Chance to Shine including Siraj Ali, Chance to Shine Street coach, Chloe Leveridge from Suffolk Cricket Board, as well as staff and pupils from Fairholme Primary School in West London.

The event also saw the publication of Chance to Shine’s first ever Impact Report, detailing the incredible effect that the organisation is having on hundreds of thousands of children each year.

We know that cricket can help children gain the confidence they need for the healthy life, as well as teach important life skills. The Impact Report found that 86 per cent of teachers noted their pupils had ‘developed team working skills’, while 81 per cent saw ‘improved confidence’ in the students.

Hear what the children, teachers and coaches involved in Chance to Shine think about the programme:

Meanwhile, the pupils themselves have also noticed the difference that the coaching sessions are making. 64% of 3,354 pupils asked said ‘I have felt more confident playing sport’ and 61% agreed that they ‘felt happier since taking part’.

Chance to Shine is making a real difference in children the opportunity to play and learn through cricket from Cornwall to County Durham to the small town of Port Talbot where Millie-May first picked up a bat and ball.