Highfield cash going down the drain - in a good way!

As with most other local businesses, the cricket club – which celebrates its centenary in 2024 – is reeling from the knock-on effect of the Covid-19 pandemic.

That’s led to the cancellation of all its planned fundraising this year, including two scheduled Sportsman’s Dinners and the annual Bonfire Night and Firework display, which have left a huge hole in the coffers.

To fight back, instead of setting off rockets on November 5, the committee launched its own crowdfunding appeal.

And after serving the community so well over the years, they’ve been overwhelmed by the response from local businesses, individuals, ex-players, and supporters young and old.

The initial target of £21,000 – to cover the first stages of the work – was met in little over a week.

But they are appealing for more help to ensure as much of the cost of the new drainage system – which will total around £45,000 – is covered by the deadline of December 17.

“We are appealing to all those who have used previously, or continue to use, the cricket ground at Highfield, whether at a community event such as the annual bonfire night, family fun day or, of course, through cricket,” said club chairman Gary Speakman.

“The appeal is designed to raise urgently needed funds to progress essential drainage work.

“We fully recognise drains aren’t the most sexy of projects, but they ensure the condition and availability of the ground can be sustained for future generations.”

The club prides itself on being at the heart of the community, providing both sporting and social opportunities for young and old.

In excess of 6,000 individuals use the ground each year, with many of them enjoying the outdoor facilities on multiple occasions.

The junior section has been boosted in recent years by the introduction of the All Stars scheme for 5-8 years old, leading to two under-9s teams in 2020 alongside teams at under-11, under-13 and under-15.

They also host District and County games, including this year an under-14s ‘Roses’ clash between Lancashire and Yorkshire, which featured two of Andrew Flintoff’s children.

The three senior teams continue to flourish with the first team a competitive force in the higher reaches of one of the strongest cricket leagues in the country, and many juniors progressing to senior cricket.

“As this year has proven, community assets like the cricket ground are so important for safe and healthy social activities,” added Speakman.

“By our centenary in 2024, we hope to have completed all works and have a ground that is sustainable and available for all of its demands.

“We have come up with a wide range of ‘rewards’ for donations and pledges, hopefully something to suit everyone.

“And we’re asking people to please do anything they can to help us make this happen.

“These rewards have been donated by the community, who have already rallied to the cause, for which we thank them so much.

“We have included a Christmas Raffle reward to try and offer some festive cheer, while a number of the rewards can also be claimed throughout 2021 to ensure flexibility.”

For more information about the rewards, please text 07721639970.

Donations can be made via https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/project-community-space-2020

Read unlimited stories for less than 70p a week by subscribing to our sports package here​