As part of the changing room extension project, the surfacing in the paddock is being upgraded to improve the visitor experience and reduce the mud that is walked into the clubhouse.

Outside of the bar that replaces the old Beer Shed, there will a slabbed area as well as new concrete access path to welcome visitors and spectators. The other half of the paddock has been covered with a hard-wearing artificial grass. The surface water drainage has been extended and the combined effect with be a marked improvement!

Our thanks go to the following: Dymott Builders for preparing the area (as part of the project works), to Agripower Ltd, to the 400 Club and to the small gang of club stalwarts who provided the volunteer workforce for the day.

Agripower are one of the UK's leading natural and artificial sports pitch specialists and the club is fortunate to have their support - in terms of sponsorship, technical expertise and an impressive work ethic. Thank you to club member Graham Londgin, Mark and Max.

The 400 Club have generously sponsored the project with the purchase of the artificial grass itself. The 400 Club runs a monthly raffle, with winnings for subscribers and funds raised for ad-hoc projects and purchases. Details available from former club chairman Doug Humphries.

Our volunteers included Jon Brooks, Carl Barlow-Heal, Jerry Philpott, Alex Bond and Conor Begley all of whom gave of their time to carry, roll, unroll, cut, glue, nail and sand the new outdoor carpet. As with many a task at the club, a 'couple of hours' became the best part of the day, but we are grateful to them for their commitment.

The club is looking forward to welcoming new and returning members on both Saturday 2nd September, when the 1st XV start the season at home to Darlington Mowden Park and on Sunday 3rd September when the youth season starts for ages 5 to 18!