Update from the Managing Director

Firstly, I hope that all of our members and neighbours are safe and well and making what they can of these difficult times.  

 

It appears that we are now past the worst of the initial Coronavirus outbreak and the many sacrifices that we have all made are starting to be reflected in the dropping infection numbers.  There finally appears to be some light at the end of the tunnel.  

 

Frustratingly, we should now be into the 6th week of the cricket season and this Friday would have seen our first home T20 fixture in what is always a fun filled and action packed section of the season. It’s fair to say that with the excellent weather of late April and early May we’d barely have missed a ball thus far!

 

From a financial point of view, obviously, the enforced closure of the clubs facilities has lead to a drastically reduced revenue. A full diary of function bookings have had to be cancelled and and the planned Easter beer and gin festival was also unable to take place.  This event was heading for a sell out and I’d like to place on record my thanks to our event sponsors, particularly Birchall Foodservice along with Adam Hope, Tony Woodworth and Frank Entwistle for all of their hard work in organising what promised to be a fantastic event….save the dates for next year!

 

As it stands, our only regular income at present is that of the Lowerhouse Draw, a big thank you to Jez Hope for his continuing work in this regard.  At £5 per month, Jez is always on the look out for new members and if you feel able to join in, please let us know (more info here).

 

Despite all of this, the good news is that the committee and I are confident that we are covered in respect of all of our financial commitments in the short to medium term!

 

We have been able to avail ourselves of he Government Business Rates grant and we have also secured funding from the Sport England Community Emergency Fund. This enables us to continue to pay all of the bills that we simply can’t avoid such as utilities, rent and insurances. 

 

I’d particularly like to thank all of those members that joined in the annual draw and who have been able to pay their membership fees to support the club at this difficult time.  It’s a testament to our membership that we have been able to collect approximately two thirds of regular membership income.  Well done to Frank for his work on this! 

 

A thank you also to our main club Sponsors SPE Furnishings who have also been able to support us despite, I have no doubt, times being equally difficult for them. 

 

Turning to the prospects for cricket being played, we are entirely in the hands of the government and the ECB.  The leagues initial plan for a July start is now no longer workable and we await to see when or if we will be allowed to take to the field. Players young and old are now able to practice in the nets under strict ECB guidelines.  We will try to keep all members updated regarding any developments!

 

In view of the various restrictions we had to cancel the contract of professional Obus Pienaar.  I am sure we were all looking forward to seeing Obus play and he has been a pleasure to deal with both in getting him signed to start with and in the understanding he has shown regarding the situation within the UK. Hopefully, this is something we can revisit for 2021.

 

On a day to day basis, the cub continues to function, Stan is still cutting the grass (the ground is in fantastic condition) and Rusty has turned from being the man that collects money to the man who returns money, as we try to ensure that all of those that had booked functions and paid deposits, get them returned.   

 

For those that haven’t listened yet. I’d urge you all to get involved with the club podcasts.  Adam, Jez and the two Joe’s are doing a great job in securing guests and re-living tales of old both good and bad.  Again. it’s a testament to the club that a number of our ex professionals have been willing to join in and share their memories of Lowerhouse and the Lancashire League. Look out for some special guests in the coming weeks!

 

Finally, I go back to where I started, these are difficult times for many people and as a club and a community I’d like to think we can all support each other. Last week was mental health awareness week and club partner Opening Up are offering a number of online resources to support people. As a club, there is always somebody able and willing to help, so if you need support with anything, just let us know!

 

That’s all for now, stay safe everyone and UTH!