GLASSES were raised after the first match of the 2016 season at Ashton under Hill Cricket Club on Saturday as players and supporters toasted the completion of a major redevelopment of the club’s pavilion.
Bill Shirra, president of the Cotswold Hills League Division One outfit, praised the efforts of all those who had been involved in the improvement project and proposed a toast to the club.
The project has transformed the lounge and bar area and provided additional changing and toilet facilities, more storage space and improved showers. In addition, the building now offers full disabled access.
The event also saw the unveiling of a new electronic digital scoreboard, the first the club has ever had.
Chairman David Whitehouse said: “The £60,000 project was largely funded through Sport England’s Inspired Facilities programme, part of the legacy of the 2012 London Olympics.
“However, the club raised more than £5,000 through a variety of fund-raising initiatives including a race night, village social nights and a ‘sponsor a cricket bat’ project which has resulted in an attractive display of several dozen hand-made pottery cricket bats in the pavilion.
“Since the completion of the restoration, the club has been delighted to welcome back the reformed Ashton 88 Football Club, as well as a new after-school club.
“The pavilion has also become a popular venue for parties and other social events and the club are keen to encourage even more community use of the facility.”
Ashton under Hill CC are always keen to welcome new adult and junior members. For more information, contact chairman David Whitehouse on 07771 942464.
The team begin their 2016 league campaign on Saturday with a home game against Kineton, whilst the 2nds visit Welford in Division Five.