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In 1960, our former President Jean Armstrong moved to Chelmsford. While working at EEV (Marconi) in 1961, she decided to form a netball club, with the team playing in the Essex League. Just two years later, in 1963, a new team was formed and officially named “Chelmsford Netball Club,” based at Rainsford School, continuing in the Essex League.
Jean’s enthusiasm for developing netball in the Chelmsford area sparked outreach to local businesses, including Marks & Spencer, Hoffmans, the Essex Chronicle, Boots, and Chelmsford Borough Council, encouraging them to form teams. Her efforts led to the creation of a single division involving around 40 players, including Jean herself, Jean
Hamblin, and Val Baker. Although Jean Armstrong is sadly no longer with us, Val Baker remains actively involved in today’s junior league — a lasting testament to her early passion for the game.

The very first Chelmsford & District Netball League committee included:

• Chair: Jean Armstrong

• Treasurer: Beryl Bultitude

• Secretary: Marion Windley

• Committee Members: Pam Burchell and Jean Wyatt

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By 1969, a second division had been established. This momentum continued, eventually growing into the impressive league we see today — boasting 11 senior divisions with over 100 teams and 1,000 players, making it one of the largest leagues in England.
In the early 1970s, young players were encouraged to get involved, and the first junior team, Chelmsford Capri, was formed. This set the naming trend for all Chelmsford junior teams to begin with a “C.” Initially, there were just a handful of junior teams, many connected to existing senior clubs.

Today, the Chelmsford Junior League comprises 11 divisions, including a Development League, with over 100 junior teams. In a heartwarming full-circle moment, many grandchildren of the league’s original members now play in the junior league.

Altogether, between seniors and juniors, Chelmsford & District Netball League now supports over 200 teams and more than 1,500 players — a remarkable achievement and a true reflection of the dedication, enthusiasm, and community spirit of countless individuals overthe past 60 years.