Village cricketers must raise 20,000 to enjoy sweet smell of success (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

Village cricketers must raise 20,000 to enjoy sweet smell of success

12:37pm Sunday 11th May 2008

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WHEN a village cricket club won promotion and tasted the sweet smell of success they little realised it would land them with a bill for 20,000.

League rules insist that clubs in the top two divisions must provide showers. And at the moment, Rainton Cricket Club, near Thirsk, do not possess such luxuries.

Club spokesman Rob Knox said: "We don't sweat. We go straight to the pub were no-one can smell us."

Officials of the Nidderdale Cricket League are allowing Rainton to continue without showers during the coming season, but the club must have them fitted in readiness for next season.

Because of Rainton's ancient wooden pavilion, the club has decided to build a new one to include showers.

Fortunately, three of their players have building skills and their expertise is helping to keep down costs.

But raising 20,000 is providing a headache for the minnows which is why they are organising a social event at nearby Breckenbrough Special School on Sunday, May 25.

Rainton is very much a family club. Mr Knox has two sons who play for it - Ben and Sam; Dave Box also has two sons in the side - Matthew and Mark, while chairman Don Wright's son David is also among the players. A further father and son team is Del Roberts and son Jake.

Mr Knox said the amount which needed raising had come as quite a shock.

"We are just a small family club of about 20 members and have managed without showers for many years. But that is league rules," said Mr Knox.

The club's new pavilion plans sparked an objection but the development was eventually approved by Harrogate Borough Council.

Because of the longer planning process this had cost the club 500, said Mr Knox.

Rainton's social event will feature 1960s-style band. Tickets are available on 01765-640629.

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