A Shropshire sports club is celebrating a major funding boost that will help transform its training facilities for players and the local community.
Funding Secured for Facility Upgrade
Wem Cricket Club has been awarded a £3,000 grant from Persimmon Homes West Midlands. The money comes via the housebuilder's Community Champions initiative, which supports local projects.
The cheque was formally presented at the club's ground. In attendance were the club's chairman, Shaun Astley, Persimmon Homes West Midlands managing director Joe Turner, and local ward councillor Alan Holford.
Project Aims and Community Impact
The funding will be directed towards a crucial project: installing new England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) approved astro-turf nets. These will replace the club's current, ageing practice facilities.
This upgrade is set to deliver significant benefits:
- Enabling year-round coaching, regardless of the weather.
- Expanding opportunities for the club's junior section and its growing women's and girls' teams.
- Opening the door for use by the wider community and local schools.
Local Leaders Hail Community Asset
Councillor Alan Holford, who represents Wem and Wem Rural, said the donation would have a real impact. "It was great to speak to members of Wem Cricket Club and find out about the projects they are undertaking," he stated. "This kind donation from Persimmon Homes will really benefit the community."
Club chairman Shaun Astley expressed profound gratitude. "Wem Cricket Club is incredibly grateful for the generous support from Persimmon Homes," he said. "This funding brings us a significant step closer to installing our new cricket net facility. It will enhance our ability to develop cricket within the community, support players of all ages and abilities, and ensure our facilities are maintained for future generations."
Joe Turner, Managing Director at Persimmon Homes West Midlands, praised the club's role. "Wem Cricket Club is a real asset to the town, offering opportunities for more than 180 local players, including a large junior section and growing women's and girls' teams," he commented. "We're proud to support their efforts to improve facilities and keep cricket thriving in the community."
The investment marks a timely lift for the club as it pushes ahead with plans to secure and improve local sports training infrastructure for years to come.
