Is the future of our local playing field at the crossroads?
Yes, this does sound dramatic but the reality is that future of this much loved local community amenity is very uncertain.
What do you know about the playing field?
Opened in 1975 it has provided a space for walkers, informal recreation and both cricket and football pitches for competitive sport. This provision has relied on the goodwill and commitment of a succession of volunteers.
What does it involve?
It requires local people to give of their time generously to maintain and improve the facility and raise much of the funding to pay for this.
Why is the future of the facility in doubt?
Worryingly the current committee numbers just three trustees and one committee member. It is the case that also these volunteers undertake much of the fund-raising and maintenance and they’re not getting any younger!! Two of the trustees are over 70 and one over 65 years of age.
What do we need? WE NEED NEW VOLUNTEERS.
People of all ages, of both genders and those with disabilities would be welcome and no previous experience is required.
How can you help?
In addition to the specific roles – chairperson, treasurer and secretary, there are places for members to help with organising fund raising and events, – examples of such activities are the Firework and Bonfire Evening, Pop Up suppers, Race and Quiz nights. Committee meetings annually total six and usually are held in the pavilion.
Other volunteers Grass cutting, football pitch line-marking, cricket wicket maintenance, pavilion repair and upkeep, drainage ditch clearance – activities to name but a few! The first three tasks need to be carried out on a weekly basis and the others through maintenance/working party sessions on Saturday mornings – usually six annually.
Do you think you can help? Interested? Would you like to find out more? As a first step, why not visit the Playing Field website visit the Playing Field website hdpf.uk and click on the Contact Us in the menu.
Many thanks
The Trustees, Hadlow Playing Field.