THERE has been some double delight for Great Dunmow CC this week as the club prepares for a brand new season.

Not only was the ground-shaping CricketForce project a success but the St Edmunds Lane outfit also bagged themselves a kit sponsor with a contract signed until 2014.

Out There Sports owner Chris Muir has agreed a three year deal to supply discounted kit to members, and particularly to the youngsters in the junior teams.

Colts development officer Nick Down is “delighted” as Dunmow head into an assault on promotion in the Two Counties Championship.

“To have support like this to help our vision and provide cricket for the community is greatly appreciated,” he said.

“We are delighted that we have the support that we do because it means we can give cricket to those who want to play.”

Mr Muir who played village cricket as a youngster said: “I will be offering a discount to members and a double discount to family members to encourage people to become actively involved with the club. I want the shop to support the local community.

Dunmow CC has just installed �40,000 cricket nets, part-funded by the English Cricket Board and Mr Down added: “We are always looking for local support to keep the club going. It goes towards improving the services and facilities that we provide.”

- The current facilities got a much-needed lick of paint after the winter break as NatWest CricketForce 2011 sprung into life at the weekend.

Volunteers descended on the ground to lend a hand and get all the jobs done that needed doing, ready for the season opener against Hadleigh CC on April 23.

Ex-England batsmen Mike Gatting, now ECB managing director of cricket partnerships, said: “Once again we have seen fantastic contributions and generosity from the communities over the weekend.

“Another record breaking year proves how popular NatWest CricketForce is with clubs. It provides an excellent opportunity to engage with the local community and businesses as they assist them to renovate and prepare facilities ahead of the season.

“It’s so important for cricket clubs to get the support of their local community so the game continues to grow and there are safe, quality facilities for everyone to enjoy.”