New Cricket Training Facility Bowls Over Ashington Community
Ashington Town Council is thrilled to announce the successful completion of a state-of-the-art Double Bay Cricket Practice Training Facility at Ashington Rugby Cricket Club, on Ellington Lane, Ashington. The council contributed £3,000 towards this exciting project last year, which was ready just in time for the 2024 cricket season.
The new facility is already proving to be a game-changer for the club and the local community. It's not just for team practice - families are using it for recreational cricket most nights, and there's even talk of a future Women's Softball Cricket Team thanks to the enthusiasm it has generated!
Ashington Rugby Cricket Club has long been a cornerstone of the community, offering cricket opportunities for all ages and abilities. From their All-Stars program for 5-8 year olds to their senior teams competing in the Northumberland and Tyneside Cricket League, the club ensures that everyone has a chance to enjoy the sport.
"The club's commitment to youth development is especially impressive. By providing opportunities for our young people to engage in sport, we're investing in the health and well-being of future generations. And who knows? With facilities like these, we might just be nurturing the next Mark Wood. It is amazing that the Town Council was able to play a part, showing our commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance the quality of life for all our residents. As we look to the future, we're excited to see how this facility will continue to bring our community together and inspire a new generation of cricket enthusiasts in Ashington,” said Civic Head, Cllr Caroline Ball.
The club's dedication to youth development is particularly noteworthy. With fifty-one youngsters signed up for their All Stars and Dynamos programs this season, plus under-9, under-11, and under-13 teams, Ashington Rugby Cricket Club is investing in the future of the sport.
In a true celebration of Ashington's cricketing heritage, England, and Durham fast bowler Mark Wood, one of Ashington's own, officially opened the new nets. Wood, currently one of the fastest bowlers in the world, embodies the potential that facilities like this can unlock in young players.
Mark Wood, visibly enthusiastic about the new facility in his hometown, said, "It's an absolute honour to open these new training nets at Ashington Rugby Cricket Club. As someone who grew up playing cricket in this community, I know firsthand how important good facilities are for developing young talent. These nets will give local cricketers, especially the youngsters, a fantastic opportunity to hone their skills and fall in love with the game. Who knows, we might see the next England fast bowler coming out of Ashington thanks to this brilliant new facility!"
Chair, Paul Milburn who managed the funding process and sourced the nets said, “We are so grateful for the funding provided and very proud to have these cricket training nets, they have made a big difference to our club for our members young and old, having somewhere that is fit for purpose to practice. What is pleasing to see is our juniors and their parents coming over and using the nets whenever it is convenient for them. The nets are a great way for our members to improve their skills in a safe environment and at the same time enjoy themselves.”
The Town Council's contribution was part of a broader funding effort, which also included:
Northumberland County Council - Community Chest Scheme
Northumbria Police & Crime Commissioner - Operation Payback Fund
County Councillor Lynne Grimshaw – NCC Members Local Improvement Scheme
County Councillor Caroline Ball – NCC Members Local Improvement Scheme
County Cllr Lynne Grimshaw, who supported the project through the NCC Members Local Improvement Scheme (MLIS) said, "As a County Councillor, I'm always looking for ways to invest in projects that bring real benefits to our community. The new cricket training facility at Ashington Rugby Cricket Club is a perfect example of how local government can support grassroots sports. Seeing the enthusiasm from both young and old using these new nets is truly rewarding. This facility will undoubtedly play a crucial role in nurturing local talent and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle in Ashington for years to come."
As the club looks to the future, they're already planning their next project - refurbishing the old cricket score box. This ongoing commitment to improvement ensures that Ashington Rugby Cricket Club will continue to be a vital part of the community for years to come.
For more information, or to get involved, contact Paul Milburn, Chair at p.milburn@sky.com
(pictured left to right) County & Town Cllr Lynne Grimshaw; Mark Wood; Civic Head, County & Town Cllr Caroline Ball; Paul Milburn.
Photography provided by Malcolm Ross, Ashington Camera Club
