THE chairman of Darwen Cricket Club has written to the town council to explain how annual cash grants have helped the club develop.

Darwen Town Council gives £2,500 to AFC Darwen and Darwen Cricket Club to help with youth development and deputy chairman Coun Pete Hollings had asked the clubs for feedback on how the cash had helped them.

In a letter to the council, Graham Ainslie said: “I write to acknowledge the very generous support afforded to Darwen Cricket Club by the Town Council over the past few years.

“The costs of running a cricket club increase every year.

“We have two grounds, four senior and four junior teams as well as a membership in excess of 300 to support.”

Mr Ainslie detailed projects the cash has been spent on, including ECB Level One accreditation for four new coaches, winter coaching for youths, new equipment, pavilion renovations, landscaping and work on the cricket pitch.

He added: “I trust that the information above helps you understand how vital and appreciated your support is.”

Coun Hollings said: “Graham and his team work tirelessly to maintain and improve an essential sporting facility which not only provides a fantastic supporter sport, but also brings the community together.

“With youth development firmly on the agenda, we look forward to many more successes from Darwen Cricket Club.”