They started a community programme in local schools which saw the saw junior numbers increase. They also decided to do something about the clubhouse and launched a buy a brick appeal. The money came flooding in and they reached their target with time to spare. Other organisations supported the project, such as the local fire station which donated the entire commercial kitchen. Nat West Cricket Force saw enough tiles donated to tile kitchen, shower/toilet area and bar area. Season 2006 saw the start of their work with Chance to Shine, as one of the first clubs to get involved in this fantastic initiative. ECB also selected them as a club for a series of Sky TV test match lunchtime programmes called Clublife. Six programmes followed various aspects of the club’s work and this led to an enormous interest in the club from all parts. The rewards of all this publicity cannot be overstated as all of a sudden it opened doors and gave the club credibility with organisations, people and most important, funders. They decided to employ a part-time club development officer to undertake their school visits and coordinate the club junior programme. Initially, they worked with six schools in primary and middle ages. This saw a large influx of new juniors and with that volunteers from the ranks of parents who came to enjoy our new clubhouse. This “good news” story building on our already growing reputation led to further successful grant applications and bar take/subscriptions. As many had come into the club in June/July they were able to run holiday camps. These included young leader training, where older juniors helped out, learnt IT skills, running a club shop as well as coaching skills. They received children from backgrounds cricket previously hadn’t really reached and the Youth Justice Board Awarded £5000 to extend the programme to other schools. Income soured, volunteers soured – the place thrived as a centre of our community In 2010 their reputation had grown to the extent we were commissioned by the Local Authority to deliver in as many schools as they could across the year. As their volunteer base grew and people became engaged with the club they raised funds for pet projects – allowing them ownership! Out of season fundraising became significant – it started with a small group of parents pooling fireworks and having a party. 24 years later they fireworks attract 9000 people and generate £24,000 profit. All kinds of agencies help due to their standing in the community and the Beer Festival the club works with CAMRA and local Rugby club and share proceeds and donate to a local charity each year. They have also developed partnerships with other organisations to commercialise their ground maintenance and ensure regular cash flow throughout the year and allowing them to retain full-time groundsman.