Work is continuing on Rydal Penrhos’ cricket surface ahead of what will hopefully be a busy summer of action.
With COVID-19 cases falling and vaccine rollouts increasing across the country, there is renewed hope that a much-needed return to some semblance of normality is not-too-far away. Pupils and staff have done an incredible job of adjusting throughout the pandemic restrictions implemented by the Welsh Government over the last 12 months, which has stemmed from a thorough online learning provision and every possible precaution being taken on-site.
Despite so much uncertainty regarding the current climate, Rydal Penrhos is continuing to plan and progress to improve the learning experiences and development of pupils young or old. Providing restrictions allow in the coming weeks, then all signs point to some cricket being played at New Field for the first time since coronavirus began causing so much concern across the world.
The school’s grounds staff, together with 360 Groundcare, have completely revitalised the surface with four bags of seed and 94 instalments of Loam, which is soil composed mostly of sand, silt, and a smaller amount of clay.
This significant investment at the school’s New Field sporting facility has been maintained by Rydal Penrhos’ groundstaff throughout the winter, with 360 Groundcare also paying a second visit to the site for additional work.
The New Field surface is widely regarded as one of the best in the region and has been a regular host of Welsh youth international fixtures and has also welcomed Lancashire Cricket Club for training ahead of their annual match against Glamorgan at the home of Colwyn Bay Cricket Club.
Another memorable occasion hosted by the school is the first XI’s annual fixture against Marylebone Cricket Club, which has been played for more than a century and is always one of the most anticipated sporting events on the calendar.
Head of Art Mark Sherrington, who is a member of the Rydal Dolphins team of alumni, said: “There is nowhere better to play sport.
“Old boys come back just to be on that field again. The pavilion gets the sun in the evening, it is a special place on a summer’s evening after a day of sport to have a cup of tea or a beer.”
In addition to the work already carried out on the wicket, there are further plans to improve the surface during the autumn months as part of Rydal Penrhos’ ongoing investment across all areas of the site.
Pupils also benefit considerably from the outdoor and indoor nets throughout the year to aid their development, which is also used by Cricket Wales as part of their youth coaching schemes.
Rydal Penrhos has a rich and proud history of cricketing success throughout the years, with many pupils going on to achieve international recognition at Welsh youth and senior level.
Much will depend on whether restrictions are relaxed, but the school’s cricketing provision is ready to go once the green light is given by Sport Wales and the Welsh Government.
_____________________________________
Anyone wishing to enquire about Rydal Penrhos School can do so by calling 01492 530155, email admissions@rydalpenrhos.com or register your interest online here: https://rydalpenrhos.com/admissions/apply-now.
