Ashton Cricket Bowls & Tennis -Energy for Tomorrow

Aim

Installing solar panels isn't just about saving on energy it's a step to making our club more financially and environmentally sustainable.

Who are we?                                                  

Ashton under Lyne CB&TC is 168 years old with a proud history of providing sporting opportunities to the community and town since 1857. We have been based on our current ground since 1874.

We, the current members, are custodians of the legacy of this club set by those that went before us, but more importantly we are challenged with the responsibility of shaping the future of the club for the generations to come.

Why are we crowdfunding?

British Gas Energy for Tomorrow 

Thanks to British Gas’s Energy for Tomorrow programme, we’ve been awarded a £24,000 in a match funding grant, one of only six projects selected across the UK. Our goal is to raise £8,000 and for every £1 raised, British Gas Energy for Tomorrow will make it £4.

We’re installing solar panels on the roof of our Clubhouse and we need your help to make it happen.

How you can play your part

There are four simple ways to help us reach our target, and make this project a reality.

1. Make a pledge Don’t delay if you’re going to support us because momentum is key to our success. (We can only offer one reward per person)

2. Spread the word Share our project on your social media pages and tell the world to get behind us. The more people we reach, the more support we will get.

3. Offer rewards. Get involved if you are a local business by donating things we can offer to our supporters. We will give you a shout out!

4. Fundraise for us If you want to run your own fundraiser – maybe a sponsored activity or similar – use the 'contact project' button at the top of our page to let us know. Setting up your own page only takes a few minutes and you won’t need any bank details. Just a fun idea!

This isn’t just about saving on energy bills. It’s about taking a major step toward making our Club more:

• Financially sustainable
• Environmentally responsible
• Community-focused

By investing in clean, renewable energy, we're investing in the long-term future of the Club and the planet.

We’ve been invited by the British Gas Energy for Tomorrow team to pursue this project — an exciting opportunity that comes with significant backing. However, their support won’t cover the full cost. That’s where you come in.

How we’ll spend the money raised

Our solar panel installation project will cost £32,000.  The amount we need to raise ourselves is £8,000.  This will ensure that the cost of installation; battery storage capacity and panel protection will be met. 

Primary Aims:

• Promote Environmental Sustainability
• Reduce Energy Costs
• Enhance Club Reputation
• Increase Energy Independence

Long-term strategic benefits

• Attract Funding or Grants
• Community Engagement & Education
• Enable Future Expansion
• Compliance with Future Regulations

Community Impact

Our club is more than just a place to play — it's a welcoming community hub. We run youth programmes like All Stars and Dynamos, offer volunteering, skills opportunities, and inclusive sport for people of all ages and backgrounds. From family fun days to charity events and holiday programmes, we bring the community together — especially in an area facing real social challenges. Your support helps us stay sustainable and continue making a positive impact.

Benefits include;

Improved experience for existing members:

• Reinvestment of our Capital
• Enhanced Clubhouse Comfort
• Sustainability Pride

Ability to support more people: 

• Greater Usage Capacity
• Attracting New Members & Groups
• Potential Facility Expansion
• Potential solar powered equipment & resources eg EV Charging Stations

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made