In a world so often criticised by its own inhabitants for its vanity, self-obsession and division, volunteers continue to stand up as those who make our passions, such as cricket, possible.

The south-west has been lashed by rain in the last couple of weeks. That isn’t news to anybody.

Any cricket buff with an understanding of turf pitch management would know how difficult it can be to prepare a deck at the best of times, with the best of weather.

Thanks to a magnitude of helpers, volunteers and committee people, we’re going to see turf cricket this weekend. Last week, that would have seemed to be impossible.

This game thrives and survives on the back of the work volunteers and workers put in.

Cherish and respect the work they do, for we wouldn’t have a game without them.