Derbyshire return to Ashford to support pavilion renovation
by Simon Davies, 28th June 2007

A part of village life, since as early as 1841, Ashford Cricket Club has been active over the last three seasons in providing the infrastructure and opportunity for the next generation of local cricketers.  As part of this bold initiative the club has been continuously active in raising funds towards the goal of a major renovation of the current pavilion which is unfortunately on its last legs after many years loyal service.

After much hard work within the club and support from the village and the local community, the club are now progressing rapidly with plans and designs to enable the first stage of the refurbishment to begin at the end of the 2007 season.

As part of the fund raising programme for 2007, the club are pleased to announce that Derbyshire County Cricket Club 1st XI will once again be playing a 40 over fundraising fixture at Ashford on Sunday 15th July, 1.30pm start. Derbyshire County Cricket Club’s Director of Cricket, David Houghton, agreed without hesitation that the club would return to Ashford this year to help continue to assist in the fundraising efforts of the club and support cricket at the grass roots level.

Ashford Cricket Club’s sponsor, Coverworld U.K. Ltd, of Chesterfield has again agreed to be the main match sponsor, and many other local businesses have already followed in committing to sponsorship of one of this year’s major sporting events in the Derbyshire Dales.

With over 800 people attending last year’s match, this year promises to be even better, with a full Derbyshire 1st XI already named, the likes of Simon Katich, Travis Birt and Ian Harvey will be offering the opportunity to see some big hitting stroke play, spectacular bowling and fielding. In addition, the half time break will see the clubs thriving ‘Cricket for Kids’ children participate in games of Kwik Cricket around the outfield.

The afternoon itself will, like last year, offer so much more than just the cricket and should prove a great afternoon for all the family with admission prices only £2 for adults and £1 for children. A licensed bar and barbeque will be available, plus a raffle and auction with some great prizes including a holiday for six and a signed England cricket bat.

In addition there will also be the opportunity to help support Graham Welch who after many years of loyal service playing under the flag of Derbyshire has been awarded a benefit season in 2007.