A renowned chainsaw wood sculptor, Andy Burgess, is reaching record-breaking new heights as he bids to break the world record for the world’s biggest wickets.

 

Standing at an eye-catching 8.5m tall, the towering creation is Andy’s most ambitious project to date.

 

The monumental stumps are the centrepiece of a unique fundraising drive, aiming to ‘raise its bat’ for a Century (£100,000) toward Toft Cricket Club’s much-needed new pavilion.

 

Based in Knutsford, the local artist is famous for his monumental wood sculptures - but this jaw-dropping installation is set to be a true showstopper in his portfolio.

 

Andy’s no stranger to the spotlight, having crafted bespoke sculptures across the UK for major brands like Nando’s and showcased his skills on TV shows including Alan Titchmarsh.

 

Andy, with help from his three trusted tree experts, has carved each stump from colossal four-tonne Douglas Fir logs, sourced from a pre-felled site in Dorset - a project that’s taken several weeks to complete. Joined by volunteers, tradespeople and local club members, it’s a true community effort to bring the vision to life.

 

Andy Burgess says: “This has been one of the most exciting - and technically challenging - pieces I’ve ever worked on.

 

“With the sheer height and weight of the stumps, it’s hands down the biggest project I’ve taken on in terms of scale and logistics.

 

“I’ve lived in Cheshire all my life, so to create something this monumental for my own community, and for the cricket club where my daughter plays, has been a real honour.”

 

The wickets are set to be officially unveiled over the May Day weekend at Toft Cricket Club, during one of Knutsford’s busiest local celebrations. 

 

Nigel Muirhead, Club Chairman of Toft Cricket Club, says: “We wanted to create something truly memorable - and these giant stumps are a symbol of the huge role cricket plays not just here in Knutsford, but in the lives of millions of fans around the world.

 

“We’re hugely grateful for the time, energy and craftsmanship Andy and the team have poured into this project.

“The pavilion’s a hub for the whole community, with over 150 events being held last year. Updating the pavilion is part of our wider ambition to keep building something lasting for future generations.

 

“Thanks to Andy and the brilliant support we’ve had locally, our campaign has launched with a record-breaking statement. We’d love people to come down and see the stumps for themselves - or, if you can’t make it in person, check out our Crowdfunder page to get involved.”

 

The stumps will remain on display throughout the summer before the bails will be ceremonially burned at the Local Scouts Bonfire Night in November, creating the ‘world’s biggest ashes’ in a playful tribute to the sport’s greatest rivalry, The Ashes, starting in Perth on November 21st.

 

The current record Toft Cricket Club set out to beat stood at 8 metres, held by the giant stumps in Cootamundra, New South Wales - part of Australia’s famous “Big Things” attractions.