We are delighted to have The Nigel Wagstaff/Houghton Hams Charity as our chosen charity for the 2017 season. Founded in 2016, The Nigel Wagstaff charity supports local fundraising projects within the community. This year, the charity has chosen to focus on supporting the Gosset Ward at Northampton General Hospital. They will be raising money to buy a Giraffe (Omnibed) Incubator to replace the existing, less advanced, models that are currently in use at the hospital.

The Giraffe incubator has several additional features to benefit the babies without the need for further equipment. By having an incubator which can be multifunctional with built in phototherapy lamps, examination lamps, humidification and temperature control it reduces the need for other equipment around the baby, making it easier for the parent to be closer to their child. The Giraffe Incubator also gives a consistent flow of warm air within the incubator which allows the roof to lift off without the temperature of the baby being disturbed, further enabling parents to be closer to their baby.

The clubs first charity fundraiser took place on the 7^th February in the form of ‘The Big Red Gig’ held in the Old Speckled Hen Lounge.  A phenomenal £11,000 was raised throughout the night from the auction and raffle. This, coupled with a £2000 donation from NCCC, means that The Nigel Wagstaff Charity are now well on their way to achieving their target of £37,000.

Ray Payne, Chief Executive at Northamptonshire County Cricket Club, said: “We are delighted by the success of the Big Red Gig last month and are very much looking forward to helping the charity achieve their target with various events held at The County Ground over the course of the year.”