Rachel Heyhoe-Flint Launches Cricket Facilities Appeal at Pedmore Community College
10th October 2008
Former England Women’s Cricket Captain Rachel Heyhoe-Flint visited Pedmore Community College on October 8th to launch a £60,000 appeal for improved facilities and display her batting skills. Rachel committed herself to helping the fundraising appeal through her extensive network of cricket and sporting contacts.
The audience of pupils, teachers, local councillors and cricket enthusiasts heard first from Mohammed Saeed, teacher and community liaison officer at the school, and the instigator of the appeal, about the need for improved facilities. Pictures of the inadequate training facilities currently available were shown, with pupils having to practice with a soft ball on hard surfaces in a restricted space.
Margot James, Conservative Candidate for Stourbridge, said that the obvious passion and enthusiasm for the game of cricket that existed among both Asian and non Asian pupils deserved far better facilities, the facilities were needed for the school to start producing future county players.
David Kemp, Headmaster, said that cricket was a sport that brought together different communities, boys and girls, as well as being a force for fitness and achievement. He said that the facilities would be invaluable to pupils at the school, but that they would also be available to the local community for use outside normal school hours.
Mr Kemp confirmed that the school has committed £12,000 to the appeal. A cheque for £5000.00 was presented to Mr Kemp and Mr Saeed at the launch meeting, bringing the total sum required down to £43,000.
After the formalities, the audience were treated to a competitive display of batting and bowling starring pupils of the School, Ms Heyhoe-Flint and Deputy Mayor Cllr. Pat Martin who proved herself very capable at the wicket.
Photo: Top: Margot James with headmaster David Kemp, Mohammed Saeed, Rachel-Heyhoe-Flint, Deputy Mayor Cllr Pat Martin and pupils from the school.
