My thanks to all who gave up their time to attend the AGM last week. It was a productive gathering in that we were able to appoint a new General Committee and to make the necessary Captaincy appointments for the forthcoming season.
Our President Tom Williamson was re-elected and I am delighted to report that Geoff Chambers was elected as a Life Member of Benwell Hill CC. At the end of March Geoff will be standing down as Full Time Groundsman although he will continue to cut the outfield on a part time basis and to help out with the operation of the Bar.
I am also delighted to report that Barry Evans has agreed to take on the role of Ground Secretary and to join the Board in an ex officio capacity. We are hoping to augment our paid Groundstaff over the summer and if anyone would like further information please contact either Barry or myself as soon as possible.
It has been a busy time lately – elsewhere on the website you will see that we have agreed a lease with the Northumberland Cricket Board and they are now happily ensconced in what was the Tennis Pavilion. This agreement will release some capital funds to invest in our facilities and work will shortly commence on the Artificial Net Surfaces to make them fit for purpose.
Additional capital funds have been generated through Heineken Brewery and work has already begun to insert a much needed sound system in the Club. Further plans include resurfacing and remarking the car park and purchasing a new carpet for the Club House. Upstairs has recently had a lick of paint and looks far better.
These are exciting times for Benwell Hill CC as we emerge into the post Covid world – my thanks to all the many individuals and organisations who are contributing in so many ways.
Competitive cricket is a matter of weeks away now and it will be a big challenge to replicate or even improve upon the successes of 2021. Our squashers are enjoying a successful season too and Martin Avery tells me there is a waiting list to join.
Enough for now – please spread the word about the opportunity for paid work on the ground and please get in touch with me as below if you have any points you wish to make or wish to get even more involved in the Club`s activities.
Simon Lunn
BHCC Chairman
email: simon.lunn@live.co.uk
tel: 07791 683827
