The partnership between Michael Spiers and the Under 15 Boys Tour of South Africa is set to enter its 25th year when the team sets off for Skukuza in October 2026.
It was in 2002 when the late Alan Swift founded the tour and approached Keith White at Michael Spiers to provide support. Though both have since moved on, the support that Alan and Keith first devised has since continued strongly, with 2026 set to be the 24th time the Under 15 Boys will tour South Africa.
What began as an ambitious idea by Alan has grown into a quarter-century tradition that has shaped over 300 young players with a simple vision that remains to this day: to take young Devon cricketers out of their comfort zones and immerse them in competitive cricket in unfamiliar conditions.
To commemorate the milestone, Joint Tour Managers Matt Cooke and Matt Theedom visited Michael Spiers at their Plymouth store earlier this month to present them with a framed tour shirt.
Michael Spiers is the South West's leading independent jewellery and watch retailer. Family-run for over six decades, Michael Spiers now spans the South West, with stores in Plymouth, Exeter, Taunton and Truro.
"Reaching 25 years of supporting the Under 15 Boys South Africa Tour is a tremendous milestone, and we are immensely proud to have played a part in helping over 300 young Devon cricketers experience this life-changing opportunity," said Adam Spiers, Managing Director at Michael Spiers.
"Investing in sport across the South West remains incredibly important to us at Michael Spiers, and we look forward to continuing this wonderful partnership for many years to come."
Speaking on the long-standing relationship and the upcoming milestone, Joint Tour Manager Matt Cooke, said:
"For the past 24 years, Michael Spiers has been an unwavering partner of the Devon Cricket Under 15 Boys Tour of South Africa. Their continued support has been invaluable, not only in ensuring the tour runs smoothly year after year, but in helping to keep costs down for everyone involved.
"Most importantly, their generosity has helped safeguard one of Alan Swift's greatest legacies: that no child should ever be denied the opportunity to take part in this tour because of financial barriers.
"We are deeply grateful to Anna and her team for their commitment and partnership, and we look forward to working alongside them for many years to come."
South Africa Tour Auction
Our continued relationship with Michael Spiers has also seen them donate a Gucci Trademark Silver Heart Necklace to the South Africa Tour auction. The auction, which runs until Friday, 27 March 2026, is full of items and experiences which have been generously donated by our supporters, partners, players/parents and sponsors.
By participating in the auction, you're not just acquiring remarkable items; you're also making a meaningful difference in supporting our players to be part of something special.
