Cricket legend Clive Lloyd rolled back the years to officially mark the opening of Prestwich Cricket, Tennis and Bowling Club’s new clubhouse and facilities.
It was 20 years to the day since the former West Indies captain had performed the same honour for the newly-built pavilion in 1991.
He returned to the Heys ground to see the refurbished clubhouse, new members’ lounge, and enhanced sporting amenities, which had cost around £650,000.
The development project included a new changing room block, three new floodlit tennis courts, and a dedicated tennis coaching and junior zone.
Clive Lloyd unveiled a commemorative plaque last Friday evening before he undertook a tour of the ground, off Heys Road, where around 120 juniors were taking part in their weekly cricket sessions.
Clive, who starred for Lancashire from 1968 to 1986, congratulated club members and sponsors on the improved facilities.
He said: “Clubs are so important in the development of all sports and it is a pleasure to come back 20 years on to see what has been achieved and how much support the club has.
“I hope the club continues to go from strength to strength.”
Chairman of Prestwich, Cricket, Tennis and Bowling Club (PCTBC), Mr Brian Lorenzini, said: “We’re delighted to have been able to secure the long-term future of the club and strengthen its role within the local community.
“With heightened awareness of the importance of exercise in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, we hope to increase membership and encourage the community’s use of the excellent facilities on its doorstep.
“PCTBC is a well-known family-friendly, multi-sport environment and we want to ensure it continues as such for upcoming generations.”
The development was made possible through various grants, including from the English Cricket Board, Lawn Tennis Association, Sport England, and donations from club members.
Tennis Development Manager for Lancashire, Mr Scott Reid, said: “”The enhanced playing facilities look fantastic.
“It is without doubt that these facilities will support the club’s aims of increasing participation throughout the local community and contribute to the growth of British tennis.”
Richard Lewis, chairman of Sport England, added: “It’s vital that public funding for sport goes into facilities that meet the highest standards, are welcoming, and cater for everyone. That’s how we’re going to get more people using them every day.
“The new facilities at Prestwich Cricket, Tennis and Bowling Club will offer even more accessibility for its members and encourage more people from the local community to get involved in the sport.”
