James Bigwood, who later served as an MP, played once for the South Wales Cricket Club in 1861 against Clifton CC shortly having completed his undergraduate studies at St. John’s College, Cambridge.
He was a native of Bristol having attended Cotham School, so given the fact that he never played again for the Club, it is likely that the youngster was a late replacement for another gentleman – indeed, he was listed without any initials. Given his decent record in College cricket, James did not let anyone down and was second highest scorer with 11.
Opposite: Photo Credit – Glamorgan Cricket Archives.
Two years after his sole appearance for the South Wales Cricket Club, James moved to the London area having decided not to continue his training as a solicitor, and instead of joining his family’s fish merchants, he moved from Bristol in 1863 to Twickenham having been appointed manager of the Champions Vinegar Brewery. Within five years he had bought the business and oversaw the expansion of its premises, as well as developing export markets in Australia and New Zealand.
Champions subsequently became one of the largest producers of condiments in the UK, creating 1.5 million gallons of vinegar each year plus two tons of mustard a day. James later moved into the world of politics and served as the Conservative MP for East Finsbury between 1885 and 1886 as well as for Brentford from 1886 until 1906. Standing at six foot and four inches, he was the tallest Member of Parliament during his time at Westminster.
BIGWOOD, James.
Born – Cotham, Bristol, April 1839.
Died – Twickenham, 6 December 1919.