BY TOBY ROBINSON

EVERYBODY looks forward to summer but this year's will be extra special for all connected with Elworth Cricket Club.

It's been exciting times for the Sandbach outfit who are set to provide some of the area's best facilities for both spectators and players.

Work on the third and final stage of the club's development project began last Monday and should be completed for the first new league match of the season on Saturday, April 14.

This will see a complete redevelopment of the club's pavilion which includes bigger and improved changing rooms, new facilities for umpires, a refurbished lounge and extended bar together with an impressive pitched roof incorporating a cupola and clock feature.

Just seeing the construction team commence work was in itself a major relief for the club's management committee.

Phases one and two which consisted of an artificial pitch and state-of-the-art practise nets were completed last summer thanks to a successful lottery bid and various fund-raising events.

But with costs escalating beyond expectations, the pavilion's redevelopment was left hanging in the balance.

"We were a considerable amount short of the total needed," said chairman Allan Littlemore.

"As a result we had to go back to the Lottery Fund to see if they would increase their grant to us and make it possible for us to see the project through."

Last month the good news the committee had been hoping for arrived as the English Sports Council, on the recommendation of the Sport England Lottery Panel, gave the approval for further funding which together with the club's own efforts should see them through.

"Now all we have to worry about is having the work completed in time for the new cricket season in mid-April and finding the shortfall we still need to make up our share of the cost," added Mr Littlemore.

To commemorate Elworth's amazing transformation, the club are planning an official opening with a whole host of activities and special guests some time during the summer.

And they're also looking to mark this special year in the best way possible - success on the pitch.

After suffering a shock relegation to Division 1B of the North Staffs and South Cheshire League on the final day of last season, Elworth are looking for instant promotion back to the top flight.

"Some unexpected results went against us on that final day but we're certainly looking to bounce back at the first attempt," said the club's project manager Mike Hasprey.

With the excellent facilities in place, Elworth is also looking to the future and unearthing the area's young cricketing talent.

"We are endeavouring to provide a centrepiece for social recreation for all ages in our village," said Mr Littlemore.

Elworth will be fielding sides at Under 11, 13, 15 and 17 level along with mid-week and Sunday sides to accompany the first and second teams.

"Over the years Elworth Cricket Club has built up a reputation as being very progressive.

"In a few weeks time it will boast the finest of facilities for cricket practise, playing and socialising. It is determined to stay at the forefront in local sporting circles," said Mr Littlemore.