Horsham finalise preparations both on and off the pitch for new campaign

The Lions host Premier Division Middleton in a warm up game on Saturday and there is an air of optimism, mixed with relief that activities at the club are finally resuming.

The outdoor nets have been well attended and vice-captain Ben Williams said: “We’ve retained all of our players from last year and are excited to have signed a young Barbadian - Trevino D’Alleyne – recommended by Jofra Archer.

“Like Jofra, Trevino’s a very sharp bowler and will be available after his Seaford College cricket finishes.

“Nick Hooper has also joined us from Barns Green, so we’ve got a good squad with a bit more depth, especially with Chris Nash on board.”

Club manager Chris Shambrook added: “I’m delighted to say that, pending full indoor reopening – hopefully from May 17 - we shall be operating alfresco table service outdoors, in full compliance with government requirements.

“We have enhanced last season’s highly popular beer garden, with new rustic fencing, picnic benches and bistro furniture, now made a permanent feature on the edge of the pitch, thanks to unstinting efforts from our club volunteers and kind sponsorship from Oakwood Mortgages.

“We have the capacity to seat over 150 people whilst abiding to social distancing

“There will also be a takeaway drinks facility available, for anyone unable to find a seat in the beer garden area.

"Benefits for members include table reservation, 20 per cent discount on drinks, room hire and club entertainment, and early bird access to event tickets.

Non-members are also welcome, but, for the moment, please understand that we are obliged to keep the clubhouse closed for everyone, apart from the toilets.”

Concluding, Shambrook said: “Our annual firework display will hopefully go ahead on Saturday, October 31 and we are planning a Caribbean Festival of Cricket on Sunday, September 5.

"We also hope to erect an outdoor TV for the Euros in the summer, and host some live music in the beer garden later in the summer.”

Horsham’s league programme starts on Saturday, May 8.

Details of the refreshment and catering arrangements at the club can be found at horshamsportsclub.com/news/bar-and-club-opening-from-monday-12th-april/