A west Cumbrian vicar donned his religious robes to bless a new artificial pitch that has been laid at Threlkeld Cricket Club.
The Rev Malcolm Stilwell, who plays for the second XI, also had the privilege of bowling the first ball on the new surface in front of 30 club members.
He had spearheaded the project to replace the old artificial pitch that had become a safety concern and it is thanks to his determination and tireless effort that the £14,000 project became a reality. The club is grateful for the generous contribution from the Cumbria Community Foundation whose grant made the upgrade possible.
Cricket is thriving at the club with six teams now playing and record numbers turning out for training across all sections.
“If the weather conditions are wet and the grass pitches not suitable then we can play on the all weather pitch,” said treasurer and player Michael Webster. “And if the groundsman has not had time to prepare a grass pitch, which takes time and effort, then we can use the new strip. It gives us more options and more chances of having a game on.”
