It is clear to see the ‘buzz’ is back at Dereham Cricket Club.
Neil Irons, nicknamed Buzz, has returned as chairman after seven years, and is overseeing a transformation.
Since an AGM three months ago, the club has obtained a £7,000 grant from the England and Wales Cricket Board to transform the interior of the clubhouse.
READ MORE: Local heroes of grassroots cricket in Norfolk are honoured
Mr Irons said that although there were challenges, it was an exciting time at the club.
He said: “It all change since Covid. Everything has shifted and we’ve seen a sharp rise in prices.
“Thankfully we have 19 volunteers. Without them, the club would probably end up folding.
“We’ve run the club like a business, it never stops. You cannot take your foot off the gas if you’ve got a good thing going, keep pushing.”
READ MORE: Dereham win three on the spin - including cup semi-final
The popularity of the club is translating into players - 32 people turned up to its first indoor nets session of the season.
The clubhouse bar has been refurbished and has new kits for players.
Sponsorships have been secured from BDC Scaffolding, Dyno Rod, 102 MOT, Marcus Sibley Carpets and The Gemini pub. The club has grants totalling £17,500 to help it grow over the next three years.
There are also plans to apply for further funding to build new groundsman sheds, a new scoreboard, a new disabled ramp, and a new bowling machine.
Mr Irons said a pipe had burst over winter, causing part of the ceiling to come down - but will be repaired in September.
The club is aiming to return to higher leagues and has welcomed back James Harbour - a former player and fan favourite - to help.
Youth training begins on April 17, while All-Stars and Dynamos start on May 28.
Anyone interested in joining the club can call Mr Irons on 07748 302551 or email derehamcricket@gmail.com
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here