Football and cricket clubs are helping each other in a great display of community spirit.
Hurst Football Club youth section recently celebrated their resurgence from just 10 members and one team. Last year it was feared the youth section would fold.
But the section, now with 73 members, has just held an emotional awards day – with help from Hurst Cricket Club, who hosted the evening event for free and donated the bar profits.
Gemma Malone of Winnersh, who stepped in to chair the youth football last year, said: “For the new season in September we will have six teams from under sevens to under 14s. We’re very pleased.
“We have worked so hard since May. I was overwhelmed at the awards night. It was the first time we’d all been together since then. It was very emotional.
“We would like to have more social events and would love to hear from anyone who could help. We’re an inclusive and family-orientated club.
“The cricket club were very kind. Steve Hills, from them, offered to help us as they’d had their own difficulties.
“When they have events we will support them. There is real community spirit. We’re looking forward to the next season – the under sevens are excited to be playing their first season.” The awards day started at the club’s Hinton Road, Hurst, ground.
There is sturdy support from coaches. The under six team Hurst Spitfires has John and Andrea, under sevens Hurst Arrows Mark and Craig, under eights Hurst Bombers Steven and Simon, under 10s Hurst Hurricanes Craig and Louis, under 10s Hurst Raptors Alex and Pete and under 13s Hurst Tornadoes Carl and Ross.
Lisa Hollands is the secretary and Kirsty Dowding the treasurer. Prashant Yadav is also on the committee.
Steve Hills, from the cricket club, said: “We are very keen to build the community spirit in Hurst, in this case two clubs supporting each other. Both have had their difficulties and need the local residents and businesses to come together to support them.
“With this, we can ensure the future of both cricket and football in our village.”
Hurst Cricket Club announced a merger with Wokingham area’s Rangers Cricket Club for a joint 2024 season, saying: “After a very difficult season in 2023, this will secure cricket in the village.”
Young people interested in playing football or adults who can help can contact Mrs Malone on 07880 324946.
