Devon Cricket Board - Torquay complete work on £80,000 net complex

Torquay complete work on £80,000 net complex

The new net complex at Torquay CC
TORQUAY CC’s practice facilities will be a cut above the rest next season when a new £80,000 net complex is fully in use.
The four-lane, all-weather surface net, which can be reconfigured to open into a practice area, replaces the old concrete nets next to the pavilion which had been used for more than 20 years.
Viridor – the environmental waste disposal company – came up with £60,000 towards the cost through their landfill communities fund.
Joe Thompson, head of junior cricket, at the Recreation Ground, arranged a 24-hour sponsored batting and bowling event that raised more than £4,000.
Numerous raffles and social events were held to top up project funds.
A vital helping hand came in the shape of a legacy from the late Gordon Baker a lifetime supporter of Torquay Cricket Club.
Baker, who died aged 89 in 2012, joined Torquay CC as a player in 1955 and over the next 60 years was an active member of the club as a player, team captain, umpire and finally team manager.
Dennis Brewer, the Torquay chairman, said: “Gordon’s legacy gave us the impetus to fulfil our ambition to create this fantastic new facility.
“Our juniors and seniors will benefit from the opportunity to train and work closely with the coaches throughout the season.”
Brewer said there were many other people and organisations to thank for their support in time and money towards making the net dream a reality.
“A major contribution was made by Galliford Try, who supplied and prepared the base and ground works, without which project would not have been feasible,” said Brewer.
“Thanks also go to Ian Baker for seamlessly managing the entire project, Torquay Athletic RFC for their collaboration and many local community groups and schools for their support.”
Thompson (pictured) said all the hard work was worth it to see the project completed.
“For the first time we will be able to start outdoor training in March and April,” said Thompson. “ I can’t wait to get started in the Spring.
“This is going to give us a great opportunity to get the youngsters bowling and batting and get some serious time at the crease. It is a coach’s dream.”
The nets will be officially opened in May 2015 at the start of the new season.
Torquay CC is holding its awards night on Friday, November 21 at the seafront Grand Hotel starting at 7pm. Max Waller of Somerset will be presenting the junior section prizes.

DCB Ltd, University of Exeter Sports Hall, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QN Company Registration Number: 7024773