Cookham Dean Cricket Club – COVID 19 : May Update

Hi Everyone and I hope you are all well and safe.

These remain difficult times for us all, and it is at times like these that the community shows its strength. To date, the village has pulled together and supported those needing help, been respectful of the guidance around social distancing, and been grateful to all the key workers which have kept our local businesses running.

Cricket has seemed a long way from our minds though we would now be in full Friday CDCC evening swing under normal circumstances – and it is rather typically British that we have had such fine weather which has gone unused (for cricket anyway).

You might have seen that all professional cricket has been cancelled until at least the 1 July. And that the recreational cricket – our game – has been suspended indefinitely. We can probably assume that our game won’t start before the pro game,and rest assured that if that is the case, the Club will work hard to deliver a safe junior cricket program through what would have been the summer holidays – either through matches, cricket camps, or a mix of both. However, we may also have to consider the implications of there being no cricket at all with the whole season being cancelled.

Running and maintaining the Club and grounds, costs around £45,000 per year. We are actively working to offset as much of this cost as practicable via the Government support schemes which are available to us. We are also fortunate that we have some reserves to help us through – though these would be pulled from our Pavilion Fund and have an impact on that ambition. So, we will not be disappearing and we will be ready when cricket can resume, even if that is 2021.

We appreciate that these are worrying times and many will be facing financial uncertainty. However, for those who feel able, the Club would greatly appreciate any financial support available to help us protect our financial position and future plans. A number of people have already paid their subscription via the direct debit system, and for those parents and members who would still feel able to contribute by paying – in part or in full – that would be most welcome and very much appreciated.

Should you wish to make a payment the bank  details are:Sort code: 09-07-21Account number: 64459405

All contributions will be appreciated and, given our status as a Community Associations Sports Club, should qualify for Gift Aid.

We would also add at this time that if there are any recipients out there who are concerned about their finances, do please feel free to contact me in the strictest confidence.We have a number of members with experience in accessing the available support schemes, and also in helping plan a way through challenging times. As a community club, we thrive on your support – and equally, we are there to offer support to those who might need it.

So, for now, our facilities must remain closed and we will continue in the hope that something can be salvaged for the 2020 cricket season.More importantly, we hope that we all come through this situation with our – and your – friends and family safely alongside and healthy.

As we said at the start of this note, we will stay strong by supporting our community, and we will be strong with the support of our community.

Stay safe, please heed the advice we are being given, and be ready for the return of cricket one day.

Thank you.Ian.