A new programme combining sport and mental wellbeing is launching in Harrogate this spring to help people improve their mental health and connect with others.
Mind in Harrogate District has secured funding to deliver Thorpey’s Bat & Chat, a free 12-week programme that brings together beginner-friendly cricket sessions with relaxed group discussions about mental wellbeing.
Delivered by Mind in Harrogate District, the programme offers local people the chance to come together in a relaxed, supportive environment to enjoy cricket-based activities while having open conversations about mental health.
Thorpey’s Bat and Chat forms part of a national initiative inspired by the legacy of former England and Surrey cricketer Graham Thorpe, MBE. It is supported by mental health charity Mind, Surrey County Cricket Club, and the Thorpe family.
The programme has been made possible thanks to fundraising through “A Day for Thorpey”, a special event held at The Kia Oval on 1 August 2025 that celebrated Graham’s life. Funds raised through headband sales and donations are now helping local Minds deliver sessions across England and Wales.
Lucy Gifford from Mind in Harrogate District said:
“Thorpey’s Bat & Chat is about creating a welcoming space where people can enjoy being active while also having the opportunity to talk about their wellbeing.
"We know that physical activity and social connection can make a huge difference to people’s mental health, and we’re really pleased to bring this programme to Harrogate.”
Sessions in Harrogate will take place every Wednesday from 4pm to 6pm at Beckwithshaw Cricket Grounds, starting on 6 May.
Each session will include cricket activities led by a coach, followed by an informal wellbeing discussion led by Mind in Harrogate staff, creating a supportive environment where participants can talk openly and connect with others.
Participants do not need any prior cricket experience, and the sessions are open to anyone aged 18+ who may be struggling with their mental health or simply looking to boost their wellbeing.
Hayley Jarvis, Head of Physical Activity at Mind, said:
“Last year’s A Day for Thorpey was an amazing and powerful event which showed the value of bringing people together through sport to talk about mental health.
"Thorpey’s Bat and Chat continues that legacy. The programme honours Graham Thorpe and the courage of his family in sharing his story.
"We’re absolutely delighted to be a part of it, and thanks to the incredible support shown through A Day for Thorpey, local Minds across the country can deliver these sessions in partnership with the cricket family and help more people find support in their communities.”
The programme is open to adults aged 18 and over, and no previous cricket experience is required.
Amanda Thorpe said:
“We want to celebrate Graham and his memory, as well as remove some of the stigma around mental health, especially for men. Thorpey’s Bat and Chat will help to do just this.
"I had the chance to visit a Bat and Chat session last summer, and one of the participants told me it was the reason they got out of bed in the morning.
"That is very powerful, and it shows these sessions can give people the space to talk about their mental health, through an activity they love, and with a supportive group.
"We are so pleased to see the roll-out of Thorpey’s Bat and Chat sessions around the country and would really encourage you to give it a go if you’re struggling with your mental health.”
People interested in taking part can register their interest online at: https://mindinharrogate.org.uk/bat-and-chat or contact the team at: office@mindinharrogate.org.uk
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