Who are we?
The Boughton & Eastwell Cricket Club, formed in 1798 with strong historical roots, is dedicated to fostering a sustainable and inclusive cricketing environment for all ages. As a charitable organisation, its mission is to ensure the long-term vitality of cricket in the community, emphasising values such as teamwork, fitness, fun, and inclusivity. We are also encouraging more participation from girls and women.
The club boasts a vibrant cricketing community, comprising:
Two Adult Teams - offering competitive and friendly matches for various skill levels. Four Colt Teams - catering to youth aged 6 to 16, nurturing the next generation of cricket enthusiasts.
Why are we crowdfunding?
The existing pavilion, approximately 70 years old, has long been inadequate for the Club's needs, beyond reasonable repair and was outdated and lacked essential amenities, such as hot water & heating, rendering it unfit for purpose.
Efforts to replace it have been ongoing for several years, with planning permission approved in 2023. Consistent fundraising efforts have so far secured more than £250,000 and the demolition and rebuild project commenced in September 2024, with a goal of completing construction by spring for use in the following summer.
We are progressing with a modern, attractive timber pavilion on the same site. This new facility aims to serve not only the cricket club but also the broader community by providing a space for local clubs, groups, and events.
We are fundraising to cover the costs for the fit out of the new building, to provide modern accessible facilities for use of both the cricket club and the wider local community, along with replacement of the outdoor practice net facilities.
If you're applying for extra funding, this is a good place to demonstrate why your project is eligible so refer back to the criteria to help complete this section
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How we’ll spend the money raised
With the building shell almost complete, we need to raise funds for the internal fit out - including M&E (electrics/ plumbing, etc), flooring, security equipment, kitchen installation and appliances, furniture and fittings. We have pledges for a number of these to be donated or at cost - such as donated kitchen units, the electrics installation, walls drylining, security equipment, but need funds for other aspects.
Community impact
The pavilion is at the heart of the local community and the Club plays an active role in local events, such as organising the annual village fayre. In addition to ensuring cricket can thrive at Boughton Aluph, we propose to use the pavilion to operate a community cafe for local residents, many of whom are elderly and live alone. Other sports groups, such as a local cycling club, have already expressed an interest in using the pavilion as a base.
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!
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!