CRICKET: A £35k cash boost for village club

The village club, whose senior side play in Divisions Two of the Cambs and Rutland Leagues, will use the money to install an artificial pitch, a bowling machine, two full practice nets and an electronic scoreboard, as well as develop their existing youth cricket programme.

Newborough, who opened a new pavilion last September, will also purchase wicket covers to protect one of the best playing surfaces in the area.

Alan Jones, vice-chairman of Newborough Cricket Club, stated: “‘Amazing’, ‘fantastic’, ‘wonderful’ are just three words that sprung to mind on receiving this boost from the Mick George Community Fund.

“This award will make a huge difference in all aspects of the club, but mainly within our growing youth section. Our coaching capability will move to a new level. Coaches will also be able to spend more time coaching and less time organising and preparing. This is a truly brilliant day for the club.”

With few amenities in the village of Newborough, it is anticipated that the recent changes to the leisure facility will be welcomed by the local community, providing an excellent outlet for youngsters especially in the school holidays.

Jon Stump, finance director at Mick George Ltd commented: “The business is involved in a number of sporting partnerships within the local community. Although our showcase arrangement is with Peterborough united FC we recognise the importance in supporting local, grass roots clubs in a bid to unearth and develop emerging talent.

“It is no different in this situation. We are hoping that the funds provided boost the coaching and playing levels. Pleasingly, Newborough Cricket Club has already seen many of its juniors progress in to senior teams and hopefully this will continue with our assistance.”

Newborough run two senior teams on Saturdays and Sundays and junior teams from under nine to under 15 level.