Littleborough Lakeside and Thornham get facilities boost through ECB Scheme

Lancashire Cricket Board

Cricket clubs across Lancashire, inclduing Littleborough Lakeside and Thornham, have received a financial boost of £70,000 through the England and Wales Cricket Trust Small Grant Scheme 2015, supported by Waitrose.

Lancashire Cricket Board has distributed funds from the Scheme to clubs, aiming to improve their long term sustainability and / or to increase the number of games played.

Clubs applied to fund projects including refurbishment to kitchens and social areas, the purchase of covers supporting ECB’s Get the Game On campaign, and environmental sustainability helping clubs become the heart of their local community. 

Waitrose, the England Team sponsor, supported this initiative by pledging £100 for every four or six scored across the entire home international summer in 2014. The Waitrose donation, alongside investment from Sport England and the England and Wales Cricket Trust, has allowed more local communities to benefit.

Paul Bryson, LCB’s Clubs & Leagues Manager, said: “This is a fantastic Scheme that has given much needed support to Lancashire clubs across a variety of projects. The scheme allows clubs to make a real difference within the local community.”

Mike Gatting, ECB Cricket Partnership Ambassador, said: “We’re passionate about creating a sustainable future for cricket clubs and their communities across England and Wales. Small grants to clubs across Lancashire make a huge difference to their long term future.”

Rupert Elwood, Head of Marketing for Waitrose, added: “As they prepare for a busy summer of fixtures, we are proud to see the positive impact these funds will have on local clubs. We are especially excited that so many clubs are investing in their kitchen and social areas. This grant scheme is dedicated to grassroots cricket, supporting clubs as they build their fundraising activities and ensure a longstanding future as a key part of the local community. We are also delighted to announce we'll be running the Waitrose Boundary Fund again this year. During the upcoming Ashes Series, we'll be donating £100 for every four or six scored by England.”

Charles Johnston, Director of Property at Sport England, said: “We’re pleased to support the ECB in its Small Grants Scheme. We know that people have a better experience of sport when they have good places to play and get changed. With this scheme helping clubs improve facilities and equipment, it will enable clubs to provide more regular opportunities for practice, matches and social activities, benefitting the local community.”