LAST week was a fantastic one for Monkswood Cricket Club as they have been accepted into the Glamorgan and Monmouthshire Cricket League for the 2014 season.

This is the culmination of many years of hard work, both on and off the field by many people at the club.

 

Over the past five years the club has achieved:

 

Promotion by its first team from division four in the WCCC to division one and now acceptance into the GMCL.

Three promotions for its second team from the old second XI division three to division three in the new "single ladder" WCCC. The seconds will now join the firsts in the GMCL.

The establishment of a third XI and last season's promotion from division Eight to seven of the conference for the thirds. The thirds will continue to play in the WCCC.

Consistently high marks with regard to behaviour on the field culminating in being awarded the "Spirit of Cricket" award at the recent WCCC league dinner as the club (all three teams) within the WCCC who best reflected the way in which the WCCC committee would like to see the game played.

Achieving clubmark status for the club (big thankyou to Glyn Watkins).

Establishment of independent water and power supplies to its pavilion.

Improvements to the pavilion including new toilets, improved showers and repairs.

Together with capital spend on certain ground items, the above improvements have allowed the club to meet all criteria for acceptance into the GMCL.

 

Whilst its dangerous to pick out individuals as so many people have contributed, there are a few who deserve special mention. The clubs' President and former Chairman Jeff Martin, who planned the work on the ground and pavilion that was needed to meet the GMCL criteria.

Kevin Brooks for the incredible amount of effort he has put into the pavilion and utilities over the past years. Dave Lippiatt for his work in ensuring the third team has continued to flourish and financial support where this has been necessary. Simon Bradley for his work with the junior section and of course the ground crew of Kevin Brooks, Jon Storey, Alan Jones, Jeff Martin, Dave Weller, Glyn Watkins and Will Brooks.

The club is determined not to stand still. Work is ongoing at the ground to improve the electrics within the pavilion and may further extend its boundaries. They also plan to build a clubhouse next to the pavilion.

Any new players of whatever age (the club also runs a junior section) or ability are always welcome. Please contact Gareth Trumper on 07710655287.