9
February 2006
Members
of Formby Cricket Hockey and Squash Club have scored a financial victory which
will transform the future of the club.
They
have won a £175,000 grant from Sport England which will launch a major programme
of improvement for the Cricket Path venue.
The
first phase is urgent work to replace the astro with
a new, sand-dressed pitch with improved fencing, driveway and car park.
Work
will start this August and by the end of October 2006 the club will be offering
a high quality synthetic pitch with improved links with the local community. It
will mean that the hockey club can continue to flourish in the national league
and at all levels for its men’s, women’s and junior teams.
It
is the first stage of a major makeover for Formby Cricket Hockey & Squash
Club, with further plans including a refurbishment of the clubhouse; upgraded
changing rooms and improvement of cricket facilities.
The
total cost of the first phase is estimated at £400,000 and fundraising is
underway to meet the balance after the grant from Sport England.
Project
co-ordinator Alan Dalley said: “This is fantastic
news for the club and for the wider community in Formby. We will soon be able
to offer high quality facilities which will benefit not just our club members
but also visiting schools and other sports teams from the area.
“Alongside
the physical redevelopment of the club, we will be redoubling our efforts to
encourage more youngsters in Formby and surrounding areas to take up hockey and
cricket. We want to make sure that our facilities are as accessible as possible
for the local community.”
Club
president Tim Halpin said: "I
welcome this improvement to our facility which is a vital asset to the Club,
not just because it provides us with the opportunity to field all our teams but
also it offers opportunities for the enjoyment of sport in a wonderful
environment. We are proud to extend its
use to schools and other sporting interests in this community.
“Everyone
is looking forward to an exciting new future for the club, and we are already
planning the next phase of work - on the clubhouse, changing rooms and cricket
pitch.”
Ends
Further
information from:
Caroline
Kenyon on 07843 243913