Dear all

Hope everyone is keeping well

Following the recent notification from the Secretary about suspending recreational cricket there have been a number of enquiries about whether we believe that cricket will be available this season. Some parents have asked if we intend to return junior membership fees as they are experiencing hardship as a direct result of the Coronavirus outbreak.

To answer the first question the honest answer is that we don't yet know, but we intend to always monitor the situation and if we can offer cricket we will, when we are permitted to do so by the authorities. 

To answer the second question the honest answer again is that we do not have the funds to repay the membership fees lodged with the club so far. We are a family club and over the winter/spring we have further improved the facilities within the clubhouse itself and like all organisations income from all sources is used to pay bills - and we have been doing so in good faith as we prepare the club for what we hoped would be a great summer. It's always at this time of year that our funds are at their lowest, following winter spending on ground and clubhouse improvements, equipment servicing and general maintenance. We always then budget to receive club membership and sponsorship money to get us through our next phase of spending commitments, topped up by early season social events and, of course, bar income. The latter will clearly not be happening and we are in the process of contacting all sponsors with the same message as this communication about junior membership fees. 

 We do appreciate there are those who are experiencing sudden hardship so it is understandable that they ask the question about repayment. However, we request that as many parents as possible leave the fees paid so far with the club as we sincerely hope that we shall have some cricket at some stage. Should there be no prospect of cricket, we will carry that payment over to next year. 

 The Club is currently in a very tricky financial position with no immediate prospect of income during our enforced shut down, while at the same time incurring the usual expenses of any businesslike activity. 

 However, we should be seen to help as best we can and so exceptionally, please let us know whether you are experiencing hardship as a consequence of the Coved 19 outbreak. 

Also, if you feel that you could help the club with a limited period loan, we would also like to hear from you urgently. 

Please contact Mike on squarefoot@btinternet.com

This club has been in existence since the late 1920s. We have seen massive growth in the last few years and we are determined to continue on our path. With your help and with the ongoing support of all our sponsors and members we will find a way to come through this together. 
Chris Timm, Chairman, Will Haxby Vice Chairman, Mike Parsons Treasurer, Russell Parsons Secretary
Brixworth CC