Over the last day or two, some public comment has been made on social media regarding a cross-community initiative we had planned to host. In light of that, and to provide clarity, we feel it’s right to make a short public statement.
North Down Cricket Club has been an important part of Comber since 1857 — the oldest sporting club in the town, with deep roots, proud traditions, and a strong sense of identity. We reflect the best of our community and our Ulster-British heritage — confident, welcoming, and grounded in respect.
This club wasn’t just built by Comber families — it’s still made up of them. For generations, people from this town have given their time and care to something bigger than themselves. What they passed on wasn’t just facilities — it was a culture of decency, community and quiet pride. That’s the tradition we’re proud to continue.
At North Down, we welcome people from all walks of life. Cricket is a global game made up of many faiths and cultures, and that is reflected here at the Green. What unites us is the game.
Sport has always been part of Comber’s story — and North Down has been at the heart of that too. Across Northern Ireland too, it’s often been sport that’s brought people together when little else could: shared pride, shared joy, shared ground.
The Sport Summer Camp was created to give young people from different backgrounds a chance to enjoy cricket, try something new, and simply have fun. The plan was to involve ten different local sports and community groups — including organisations supporting ethnic minority communities — with the aim of building friendships through shared activity. A small group of children from a GAA club was just one part of that broader mix.
As reaction to the event grew, we felt the spirit of the camp was at risk of being lost. With regret — and out of respect for all involved — we chose not to proceed.
But let’s be clear: openness is not a threat. Respect is not surrender. And our culture is not so fragile that it can’t be shared.
We are a strong club, in a strong town. That’s why our gates will always remain open — and why we’ll keep showing others what we’re about: sport, community, and quiet confidence in who we are.
That’s what this was about.
