Work started on new pavilion in Poulton (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Work started on new pavilion in Poulton

CRICKETERS in Poulton are jumping for joy after work finally began on a new sports pavilion for the village club.

Campaigners have been trying to raise the funds to replace the current building for more than six years.

And, thanks to a grant from Sports England, the smart new pavilion is likely to be completed by March 2006.

Club president Geoff Chapman said: "This is the first major public development in the village since the church was built 135 years ago.

"With so many public services closing in villages across the country it's nice to see something being built for a change."

The existing structure, which was originally the Tetbury telephone exchange, was moved to its current position when it was made redundant in 1976.

However, in recent years the building has become too small and dilapidated for the needs of the ever-growing club.

And, after three attempts to secure a grant from Sports England, which provides funding for sports projects, the money has finally been made available.

The sporting organisation has awarded £64,000 which, along with around £60,000 already pledged, is enough for the main structure to be erected.

Club chairman David Dunn said on the first day of building work: "This is a great day for the club and all its players and especially for the children in our youth training programme. The pavilion will be an asset to the village."

The club, which will share the new building with the village football team, hopes to have more than 130 young cricketers playing this summer, and there are also plans afoot to set up a youth football programme as well.

Nevertheless, funds are still needed to refurbish the new pavilion after the main body of work is finished at the end of the summer.

For more information about fundraising call Geoff Chapman on 01285 851216.