Grant gives Goodwood cricketers extra cover

The financial boost has enabled the club to purchase a Bowdry water remover and additional side covers to attach to the mobile covers they already have.

The funding forms part of the England and Wales Cricket Trust (EWCT) Small Grant Scheme, supported by Waitrose.

Waitrose supported the scheme 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 from refurbishments to kitchens and social areas, the purchase of covers, supporting ECB’s Get the Game on campaign, and environmental sustainability in cricket clubs.

Richard Geffen, Goodwood’s groundsman, said: “We are really delighted to receive this grant to upgrade our ground facilities. It will allow us to produce drier and improved pitches and also ensure that more games can be played.

“This will be a real benefit to the local cricket community, of all ages, with more than 60 matches, adult and junior, due to be played at Goodwood this season. In addition this greatly helps us to support and develop our links with Chichester Priory Park CC.

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 like Goodwood make a huge difference to their long-term future.”

Rupert Elwood, head of marketing for Waitrose, said: “We are proud to see the positive impact these funds will have on local clubs.”

Charles Johnston, director of property at Sport England, said: “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.”

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