NEWTON Cricket Club is continuing to improve its facilities with the completion of new practice nets at a cost of £32,000.
The project was partially funded by a £20,000 grant from the SUEZ Communities Trust which is run by the waste management company.
Jonathan Reynolds, MP for Stalybridge and Hyde, provided help with a letter to support their grant application.
And Mr Reynolds paid a visit to the club’s Mount Pleasant home to view the new facilities.
He said: “It was satisfying to see the results of the successful application for funding.
“It is a great club with great facilities, and it is at the heart of the community.
“I would encourage anyone in the Hyde wider area wanting to get involved in cricket to come here.”
Newton have also installed a new electronic scorebox at a cost of £6,800.
When former member Mike Bent died, he left money for the club which funded half the cost.
And the club has decided to name it the Mike Bent Memorial Scoreboard in his memory.
Newton are one of the favourites for the division one title in the Derbyshire and Cheshire League.
They were fourth last season but have strengthened their side considerably and their latest acquisition is Australian overseas player Clayton Ryan, a batter and off-spin bowler.
Newton got their season off to a winning start beating Old Glossop at home by three wickets on Saturday, April 23.
Glossop were bowled out for 90, brothers Ben and Rhys Downend each claiming three wickets, with Newton hitting 93-7 in reply.
• Mr Reynolds, who has previously helped Broadbottom Cricket Club with a grant application, has advice to other sporting organisations wanting help.
“Please keep me informed what you are doing, and I may be able to help with applications for grants towards the costs,” he explained.