Watch The Ashes like a true Lady or Gentleman

Swap your turkey for a duck, your snowman for a nightwatchman, and make sure you’ve got your sledging boots ready to go – it’s time for The Ashes. With the start of one of sport’s greatest rivalries this Thursday, we’ve put together a list of businesses to help you celebrate in a true English manner. Each one has been able to grow or develop thanks to your lending.

Sticky pudding not a sticky wicket

Reaching the tea interval can be crucial for a batsman, and it’s an exciting moment for spectators too. We’d recommend upping your tea time credentials with something suitably scrumptious from Country Puddings in Cumbria. Lynne Mallinson, who borrowed £30,000 in 2012, started out baking from her farmhouse kitchen. Lynne has now gone on to win countless Taste Awards. As they say, the proof is in the pudding…

Bubbles on the boundary

If you find yourself on the boundary or even just at home chatting cricket with friends, celebrate like a true lady or gent with a glass of bubbly from Love Champagne. Established in 2007, the champagne specialists sell types for all occasions from their base in Shropshire. To expand their product range, Love Champagne have borrowed over £150,000 since 2016.

Strawberries as crisp as a new ball

A delight all year round, the great British strawberry will bring a touch of summer to your winter ashes. A traditional staple for any Englishman, they’ll help ease the pain of that inevitable top-order collapse. Stock up on your supplies from Annie’s Fruit Shop, who’ve borrowed over £240,000 across 4 loans since 2015, to create a truly delicious dish. Eton mess anyone?

Get yourself a hat-trick

Top off your cricket attire with a traditional hat from Laird Hatters, perfect for the pavilion or the stands. Whether you’re looking for a fedora or a flat cap, you’ll find something to suit your style. With rich colours and top quality British cloth, you’ll not only feel great, but you’ll most definitely stand out. To expand their range of handmade hats, Laird Hatters have borrowed £140,000 across 2 loans since 2013.

Become the next Joe Root

If all the cricket commotion has you feeling inspired, why not buy your own cricket gear from The Cornish Cricket Company? A step up from the sticks of rhubarb they practice with in Yorkshire, they sell a variety of gear and even offer coaching. To expand their business and hire more staff, The Cornish Cricket Company borrowed over £50,000 in 2017.

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