A cricket club is looking to hit back against vandals by fundraising to replace part of the pitch that has been ruined.
The damage was found at Long Sutton Cricket Club’s Paradise Field ground off Bull Lane, on Friday, February 21.
Part of the all weather strip on the wicket has been pulled away.
The club estimates that just two months before the season starts, the whole of that wicket will need to be replaced at a cost of at least £7,000.
“It has caused significant destruction to our cricket pitch,” said fundraising committee member Julie Speed.
“This follows a burglary last year where all of our ground-keeping equipment was stolen.
“The cost to repair the damage and restore the pitch to playing condition is between £7,000 and £8,000, which we urgently need to raise.
“We are hoping to begin junior and senior training soon, with the first match scheduled for April 26.
“However, as a volunteer-run, non-profit village club, we simply do not have this amount of money available.”
The club’s James Baker said: “This will have severe implications on both our junior and senior sections, with it limiting our ability for junior games and training for both sections.
“At the moment I am lost for words, and we have only just recovered from the theft of our ground equipment last year.
“This is another expense we cannot afford and will be looking for local and national funding and donations soon.
“I am trying to stay positive but it’s a struggle.”
The club has already had a promising start to its Go Fund Me campaign with donations nearing £1,800 as The Voice went to press on Wednesday.
“It is a generous start,” said Julie. “Any contribution would be greatly appreciated as we work to ensure the club remains operational for the community.”
You can donate here.
