A TOWN council have been praised for securing a playing field for ‘the next generation of cricketers’.
Christchurch Town Council has invested a total of £50,266 into Mudeford Recreation Ground and Cricket Pitch, which is home to Mudeford Cricket Club.
The site had been earmarked for digging and reseeding works after concerns were raised over its ‘poor condition’.
It had received many complaints from visiting cricket teams, and the chairman of the Hampshire Cricket League Ground Committee said it needed “immediate attention”.
The restoration project, which began in September 2023, included comprehensive refurbishments to address safety concerns and enhance playing conditions.
Now, the repairs are close to being finalised - much to the excitement of cricket enthusiasts, residents, and councillors.
Mudeford and Stanpit ward councillor and keen cricketer Gillian Jarvis said: “The new pitch means other teams can come to Mudeford and play matches which will be massive for ladies' cricket in the area.
“The investment the town council has made will undoubtedly bring more people into the sport locally.”
Mudeford Cricket Club is volunteer-run and participates in junior cricket, allowing up to 80 children per season to play the game.
The junior games had to be moved away from Mudeford due to the state of the pitch, but are set to return next season following the completion of repairs.
David Vines, Mudeford Cricket Club secretary, said cricketers will be able to “play at their own home ground with an outfield to be proud of”.
He added: “Cricket has been played in Mudeford and Stanpit for over 180 years.
"Without the re-development of the ground, there was a very real chance that all this history would have been lost. “
Discussing the future of women's and girl's cricket at the ground, David said: “In the summer of 2023 the club started our first Women's team.
"Over the winter they have entered the indoor leagues and will be looking to run a festival next season at the ground as well as playing other local teams.
“Mudeford will also be looking to run some girls-only sessions throughout 2024 to try and attract more girls to play the game in the area.”
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