Four Lincolnshire opticians join forces to sponsor local 'Broken XI' cricket club

The teams from four local opticians have come together to back a uniquely supportive local cricket club.

Specsavers in Sleaford, alongside three other Lincolnshire Specsavers stores, have stepped up to become the headline sponsor of the Broken XI cricket club for 2026.

Unlike other clubs, the Broken XI is a recreational team with a special mission - to provide life-changing support, opportunities and camaraderie for people who are a little bit ‘broken’, helping those facing various life challenges to get back on their feet through the power of cricket.

As headline sponsors, the locally owned and run stores support the club in keeping the costs for players as low as possible, while ensuring funds can also be reinvested to open the Broken XI to even more people.

It is the perfect boost for the club, which is already going from strength to strength after recently being nominated by the local community for a BBC Radio Lincolnshire ‘Make a Difference Award’.

“We’re so grateful to the four stores for joining forces to sponsor us this year,” said Barry Howorth, Broken XI chairman.

“We believe that a person's financial situation shouldn’t prevent them from joining the club and starting their journey with us.

“This support will go a long way towards keeping the club accessible to everyone who needs it.”

“The Broken XI is a cricket club like no other, so when the opportunity arose to sponsor them, it was a no brainer,” said James Coleman, store director at Specsavers Sleaford.

“What’s even better is that we’ve been able to team up with other local stores, which means we can make a real impact for a club that means so much to the community.

“Whether you are out of sport due to an injury, struggling with your mental health, or just feel like you need a place to belong, the Broken XI is somewhere you can turn to.”

Taking on the joint sponsorship are the Specsavers stores in Sleaford, Grantham, Lincoln, and Bourne.