British High Commissioner celebrates sporting ties and common values

To mark the arrival of the England cricket team for their tour of Sri Lanka and to commemorate Commonwealth Day (12 March), British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka John Rankin hosted a reception at his residence on Tuesday, 13 March, 2012.

By bringing together guests from sporting arenas, politics, media, business and civil society, the High Commission provided an opportunity to celebrate the sporting heritage and strong cultural links that the UK shares with Sri Lanka and other Commonwealth countries.

The event also highlighted the role of sport in improving the lives people around the world, ending with a fundraising raffle draw, to which local businesses and the England cricket team generously donated prizes. This raised money for the UK based charity, Sport Relief, through which the British High Commission is supporting the Ceylon School for the Deaf and Blind and the Welimada Day Care Programme.  

Speaking at the reception, the British High Commissioner said: “We are all here for several important reasons. Firstly, to welcome the England cricket team and management for two exciting Test matches against Sri Lanka and celebrate the spirit of cricket. Secondly, to celebrate the traditions shared by our nations.  It is particularly appropriate that the team arrived here in Commonwealth Week. Cricket is loved in many Commonwealth nations.  And despite the difficult conversations we may have with each other in other arenas, the passion we share for the game reminds us of our strong and enduring relationships. Thirdly, bearing in mind the positive impact of sport, we are also here to raise funds for the Ceylon School for the Deaf and Blind and the Welimada Day Care Programme. We hope you will all contribute generously to this cause.”

The raffle for the Sport Relief fundraiser was drawn by the England cricket captain, Andrew Strauss and the prizes were awarded by both the British High Commissioner and sponsors. A total of Rs. 114,000 was raised through the raffle.