Safeguarding
We are happy to report that there have been no unresolved safeguarding concerns since the last meeting. The safety and wellbeing of all our members remain our highest priority.

Finances and Sponsorship
The club’s finances are in a steady position, with the bar performing well and showing a slight improvement in profit margins, largely thanks to the investment the club made in new cellar equipment earlier this year.

We are continuing our efforts to secure sponsorship and are grateful for the support of members contributing in this area. The committee is exploring the range of sponsorship deals the club can offer, which would allow both sponsors and the club to benefit further.

To help with club running costs, bar prices have been adjusted in line with previous communication to members. Members will see only a modest increase, and there will be no change for our older members. A new till system is being introduced, which will help with stock control and allow us to launch membership cards on 11th July (see Pitchero message from 7th July).

We are continuing to strengthen our relationship with the Hockey Club and are looking at opportunities for joint projects and funding.

Grounds and Facilities
Work is ongoing to improve the club’s car park, and we are in discussion with contractors to find the best solution. The club recently hosted a busy day with both a junior county match and an All Stars coaching session, which highlighted the need for efficient use of our facilities.

Some changes are being made to our ground hire arrangements, and we are exploring alternative venues where needed.

The club are making steps towards installing the new netting at the St Peter’s Road end of the ground as a priority.

Damage caused by the fallen tree on Old Church Avenue and the Knots ground earlier this year is being dealt with, though this may incur some additional cost to the club.

Our team of grounds staff is being reorganised, with Damon Willetts taking the lead and additional help being provided by further staff, club members and volunteers. The club are considering apprenticeship opportunities and the possibility of offering grounds services to local schools.

Cricket and Membership
A reminder that annual subscriptions were due by 1st July. For any members who have not yet paid, please ensure your payment is made to avoid any disruption to your playing or membership status.

Looking ahead, the AGM will be held before Christmas this year, and subscriptions will realign to be available in January and due by April 1st for the following season.

Club Development and Communication
The Committee are working tirelessly on several development projects, however delays in the renewal of the lease from the Church Commissioners that were inherited by the new committee continue to hamstring progress. The lease renewal, whilst not contentious, must be completed before any significant development projects can get off the ground. As soon as an update can be provided, members will be informed.

Thank you to all members and volunteers for your continued support. For any queries or feedback, please contact a Committee member.

Regards,
HCC Executive Committee