This project will save our cricket net from extinction. It is currently in a poor state of repair and needs several thousand pounds spent on improving it. We have raised 75% of the required funding but need additional help to complete it. The refurbishment will replace the matting, extend the bowling end of the net and repair the specialist surface. It will bring the net back to life, making a true and accurate surface suitable and appealing to all types and ages of players. It will ensure the net is safe and remove the current danger of erratic bounce. The repair will guarantee its life for at least 10 more years. By resurfacing and repairing it will appeal to all as a trusted and safe play facility. The project will 'tidy up' the whole site making it look appealing and attractive to new players.

What we'll deliver:

• To refurbish and upgrade our cricket net
• We promise to ensure colts use and develop their skills

Why it's a great idea:

This planned improvement will encourage existing and new players of all types and ages. It will help us to develop our colts and links with the local schools and activity centre at Lodge Hill. Many younger (colts) players have started their playing careers at our facility. It is used by family groups and very young players. The facility is in a corner of a playfield field with large spaces around it, a convenient car park and additional playing facilities (swings + slides) for younger children who do not wish to use our net. Thus the area is designed to attract all types of players: the serious who can prepare for the season ahead and the strictly occasional or family 'fun' opportunity. The cricket club is a key part of the community and this will help it sustain its position as providing a key resource for promoting sport and leisure for all.

Steps to get it done:

• Confirm dates for refurbishment with contractor
• Check project proposal dates and timings with ground committee
• Advertise upgrade with club and other local users

In addition to the obvious development of the skills and abilities of the team the net facility provides a focal point for us to gather and make the cultural/social interchanges which do so much to create and cement club spirit. It also is about inducting new players into the norms and expectations of our club as well as giving them specific guidance to develop their batting and bowling technique. As a club we have good connections with others – we have often provided players for our better and bigger neighbours; this is part of the local cricket ‘career structure’ in our valley and we sustain this by having a good practice facility. Cricket is such a good grounding in team sport values. It is a sport that allows adults of all ages to coach, teach and encourage children and young people as they gain in confidence and develop correct attitudes and values.