Four parks in Edmonton and Ponders End will see new cricket pitches installed

Four new cricket pitches will be created in Edmonton and Ponders End to help boost participation in the east of the borough.

London Cricket Trust, Middlesex Cricket and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) awarded Enfield Council £25,000 to install the non-turf pitches at Pymmes Park, Jubilee Park, Ponders End Recreation Ground and Church Street Recreation Ground.

The aim of the funding is to encourage all types of cricket to be played in London’s parks and increase engagement among young people from a range of backgrounds. While Enfield has many cricket clubs – with some dating back to the Victorian era – most are currently in the west of the borough.

The council will also work with Middlesex Cricket to offer introductory programmes, holiday sessions for young people and potentially informal tournaments for adults.

Guney Dogan, cabinet member with responsibility for leisure services, said: “We know that sports can increase aspiration, promote mutual respect and can enhance relationships within communities.

“Cricket is a very accessible sport, improves health and, by promoting it in an informal atmosphere, we hope that we will be able to encourage increased take up across the most diverse areas of Enfield.”

It is hoped that the pitches will be ready to play on by early summer, in time for the start of the cricket season.

To find out more about local, recreational cricket opportunities:
Email [email protected]

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