A £5,000 donation from the Qualis Community Benefit Fund has helped Matching Cricket Club refresh its kitchen and create a dedicated bar area, making the clubhouse even more welcoming for community and cricket events.
The project involved reconfiguring the old kitchen to free up space for the new bar, along with installing much‑needed new appliances, including a fridge/freezer, water boiler and hob.
Matching Cricket Club has around 300 members of all ages and boasts a thriving junior section, making it a well‑loved hub in the local community.
“We’re really looking forward to making the most of the new facilities as the cricket season gets underway,” said Simon Hartnell, Chairman of MGCC.
“The new bar will help us generate vital funds to support the club and continue running community initiatives, including our Thursday Club. This is a popular weekly coffee morning that attracts around 25 local residents throughout the year.
“This project will help secure the club’s future by giving us additional ways to raise funds, ensuring we can continue to offer activities for everyone in the community – both on and off the pitch, and for young and old alike.”
To be eligible for funding, projects must demonstrate clear benefits for residents who rent their homes from Epping Forest District Council.
The Qualis Community Benefit Fund is particularly keen to support initiatives that create jobs and training opportunities, improve health and wellbeing, help regenerate local areas and make Epping Forest District a more sustainable place to live.
To find out more or apply for a grant, visit: qualisgroup.com/community-benefit-fund/
