From neglected pavilion to thriving community hub
A product donation from British Gypsum has helped turn a dilapidated cricket club pavilion into a space the whole community can use.
With the aid of Gyproc ThermaLine Plus thermal plasterboard, Temple Sowerby Cricket Club in Cumbria has doubled the size of its pavilion and built a comfortable, cost-efficient kitchen, changing area and social space.
The major renovation means better facilities for players, new opportunities for community events, and an inviting club that’s set to encourage more local people to play cricket.
Formed around 80 years ago, Temple Sowerby’s cricket team evolved into a popular village club, with many people travelling from surrounding areas to join. Due to storm damage and the frail nature of the pavilion – which was previously used as a fishing shack - the rebuild called for major upgrades including a new roof.
After years of failed attempts to renovate the club’s facilities, funding from Sports England and Eden District Council, as well as fundraising by the cricket club, finally raised the £40,000 needed to complete the refurbishments in Autumn 2022.
The cricket club can now host regular games, welcome more visitors, and open up the space to the local community.
James Farmer, Chief Grant Team Leader at Temple Sowerby Cricket Club, said: “It has been a huge team effort building this project, using local suppliers and local firms from the village where we can, such as electricians and plasterers - as well as having the plasterboard materials donated from British Gypsum.
“We have worked tirelessly over recent years to upgrade the old, tired pavilion and finally, we have a welcoming and much-improved space to host players, families, and people from our local community.
“As a club, we feel immensely proud of this achievement. Following the pandemic, we saw a real drop in people playing the sport. I only hope our renovated facilities will encourage more people to play and get involved in local cricket, reigniting the passion in many.”
At British Gypsum, we strive to be a good neighbour to the communities around each of our sites, and we support local projects that make a lasting positive impact. Find out more about our Building Better Communities programme and apply for support here.