Wind and the willow funding

The funding was awarded by the Whitelee Fund to the club, which is only in its third year of operation and is made up of youngsters who train at the Barrhead Foundry on Monday evenings.

Junior convenor of the club Ammar Ashraf said: “Cowan Park and the Barrhead Foundry have become our outdoor and indoor homes.

“The funding from the Whitelee Fund is contributing to both these facilities and laying the foundations for children to progress to playing for the national team.

“The partnership between the Whitelee Fund and East Renfrewshire Cricket Club will lay the foundations for a future of sporting excellence.”

The grant will go towards equipment such as a bowling machine, practice wickets, bats, balls and the installation of a wicket in Cowan Park.

Provost Alastair Carmichael presented the Whitelee plaque to the club at one of their practice sessions.

He said: “It’s fantastic that this fund is available to help youngsters pursue different sports that they enjoy and encourage physical activity.”

For further information on the club’s new programme, call Ammar Ashraf on 07837129845.

The fund is available to all eligible projects within East Renfrewshire although preference will be given to those within 5km of Whiteleewindfarm.