IF you pass Newnham Cricket Club and wonder how they are keeping its pitch looking lush – it could be due to a new purchase.

Chairman Chris Kenny and his team of helpers have had the help of a £8,340 grant from Gloucestershire Council Active Together project to buy a new gang mower.

The specialist piece of equipment, which mounts onto a tractor, has been vital to keep the pitch in tip-top condition this season.

Chris said: "This is a vital bit of kit for us, but it is not cheap and a small club like ours would have struggled to find the money. We are really grateful to Richard Leppington, our county councillor, for helping us with the application."

Cllr Leppington (UKIP, Blakeney and Bream) added: "This is a brilliant club. They are doing great work in getting youngsters to play the game. I am pleased that I was able to help Chris and the chaps."