A HISTORIC local sports club is taking a big step towards a greener future and calling on the community to help make it happen.
Ashton-under-Lyne Cricket, Bowling and Tennis Club has been awarded a £24,000 matched funding grant from British Gas.
The money from the supplier’s Energy for Tomorrow programme will support the Rayner Lane club’s new sustainable energy project.
The scheme will see solar panels installed at the club’s ground to cut carbon emissions, lower energy bills, and reinvest savings into local sport.
To unlock the grant, the club has launched a crowdfunding campaign – with British Gas pledging to quadruple every donation received.
The initiative aims not only to raise funds but also to boost membership, volunteering, and community involvement.
Club president Martin Frost said the support will help ensure the club stays at the heart of the Ashton community but it needs to raise £8,000 by the end of October to achieve its goal.
“We’re thrilled to receive this funding to kickstart our objective of ‘Going Green’ which will really benefit the local community,” he explained.
“For 168 years, our club has always been at the heart of Ashton, and this support from Energy for Tomorrow means we can keep it that way for years to come. We need help from our members and the local and sporting communities at large to raise £8,000 by the end of October.
“Energy for Tomorrow will then contribute £24,000 to allow us to move ahead with this vital project. Installing solar panels will not only help us reduce our environmental impact but also frees up vital funds that we can invest back into coaching, facilities and opportunities for our members and the local community.
“Since 1857, the club always had a vision to provide the opportunities for involvement in sport in the town, so it’s fantastic to receive this support from British Gas to enable us to continue to do so. We’re looking forward to seeing the community benefit from the change.”
The Energy for Tomorrow fund – run in partnership with Team GB and Paralympics – provides grants, mentoring and crowdfunding support to grassroots organisations working on sustainability projects.
Team GB and Paralympian Desiree Henry is working with the club to raise awareness of the project.
Abi Robins, Director of Responsible Business at British Gas, said the supplier is proud to be able to give the club its backing.
“We want to leave a lasting legacy in communities, just like this club, and help them to futureproof their site for the next generation to enjoy.
“This grant will help fund the installation of important technologies that will boost the club’s energy efficiency, helping them to focus on where they are needed the most – their communities.”
To support the club’s campaign, visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/ashton-u-lyne-cbtc-going-green