Cumbrian sports clubs are urged to take advantage of a £50,000 fund launched by Fibrus Broadband.
The Play it Forward Fund, now in its third year, offers support to clubs across Cumbria to help with equipment, kits, improving facilities and subsiding training fees.
Since it was launched, around 40 organisations in Cumbria have received grants, including Threlkeld Cricket Club, near Keswick.
Treasurer Michael Webster, who has been involved with the club since he was 11, said the support from Fibrus had allowed them to spend around £2,000 on new cricket equipment for their players aged five to 14.
He said: “That’s broken down into all sorts, whether that be kits, clothing, things like stumps, a catching net, balls – they’re quite expensive – and bats; you need different sizes because kids are different sizes. We got wicket-keeping equipment too because you need a wicket-keeper.
“When you’re looking at up to 30 kids of various heights and sizes it all adds up.”
He said the investment from Fibrus would be a huge boost in helping them to pitch the club, who play at St John’s Gate, off the A66 between Penrith and Keswick, to parents and prospective new players.
“The grant will help us promote the club and maximise participation.
“We don’t want children not giving cricket a try because their parents can’t afford to or don’t want to splash out cash on something which might just be a short-term interest. We think having kit and equipment available makes a significant difference.
“The support from Fibrus is really generous and helpful. It reduces the pressure to find funds to carry on with what we’re doing.
“We’re a small club, but we’ve got quite high aspirations, and we keep growing and building – we’re launching another midweek side next year.
“And without other organisations supporting us, it’s just not possible because, even with all the volunteers and best will in the world, without cash, you do get a little bit stuffed.”
Linda McMillan, chief people officer at Fibrus, said: “We are committed to playing a role in improving the health and wellbeing of children and young people, so investing in local communities is very important to us.
“Our Play It Forward Fund is just one way we try to give back to the communities which we serve.
“I’m delighted to see a new batch of clubs benefitting from our sports fund. Since launching, we’ve had a fantastic response with applications increasing year on year.
“We know how important these clubs are to the local community but equally know how difficult funding can be for them to keep the lights on and grow. We’re incredibly proud to play a small part in bettering the community in which we operate and would encourage any clubs thinking of applying to do so.”
The next round of Play it Forward funding is now open and will close on at noon on Friday October 3.
Sports clubs across Cumbria can apply via www.fibrus.com/play-it-forward-fund
