Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, visited Springhill Cricket Club last weekend to join them for a game of cricket.
The club, which is situated in Lower Penn, currently plays in the Cicada South Staffordshire Cricket Club Championship. Social cricket is a big part of the club and they field a number of friendly sides on a Sunday.
Gavin took to the field to play in a friendly match with club members as well as hearing future plans for the club. The new clubhouse has ensured that the club can continue to play league Saturday league fixtures which will secure the club’s future within the league.
Springhill Cricket Club was established in 1949 and moved to its present site in 1950. The Club was awarded £50,000 of National Lottery funding to develop a brand new Cricket Pavilion in 2013. The old wooden Pavilion was gutted in an arson attack in 2005 and was subsequently demolished. Since then the committee have worked hard to develop a new building at the site which will enable significant sporting and community use.
Commenting on the day Gavin said “The day was ideal for cricket, the sun was shining and the pitch looked spectacular. The club has a tremendous history and the rebuilding of the clubhouse last year has made a huge difference to the club as they now have a great space for everyone as well as it being a relaxing environment for a post-match drink.
"It was fantastic to hear more about the club and learn about their plans for the future. Springhill Cricket Club is a valuable community asset, and I pay tribute to all those who help to run the club and for their commitment. I would encourage anyone with a passion for cricket or sport to get involved or even turn up and enjoy one of the friendly games matches they hold on Sundays.
“Although I may not be called up as last minute addition to England’s Ashes team I had a fantastic time. It is great to see such an integral part of the community go from strength to strength and I would like to thank all those on the team for welcoming me so warmly to the day.”
“We need to ensure that we continue to support grass roots sport in this country, not only for the enjoyment and health benefits that it offers but, also, to ensure that young our athletes receive the proper training and opportunities that they need to excel.”