A LADIES cricket team has scored a funding boost from a leading housebuilder. 

Moreton-in-Marsh ladies cricket team was formed last year with the aim of encouraging women and girls to try a new sport and improve both their physical fitness and mental wellbeing. 

The team has been awarded £1,000 after being selected by Persimmon Homes Wessex as one of its monthly community champions. 

Over the summer the club has recruited over 15 members, ranging from 13 to over 60 years’ old, and competes in local league games.

The funding will be used to purchase club-branded women’s playing and training kit, and new equipment such as bats, helmets, pads and gloves.

Madi Pavey-Edwards, captain of the cricket team, said: “This is the first full season for Moreton-in-Marsh ladies team, and it’s proved a resounding success. 

“Our goal this year has been all about participation - attracting new members and providing opportunities for everyone to take part in this brilliant sport and have fun. 

“We’ve built a squad of over 15 members, ranging from 13 to over 60 years’ old, and the club provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for players at all levels.

“Next year we want to continue our progression by purchasing our own club-branded women’s playing and training kit, together with new equipment such as bats, helmets, pads and gloves. 

“Persimmon’s generous donation will make a huge difference in helping us achieve this aim and progress our exciting cricketing journey; we are extremely grateful for their support.”

Pauline Fletcher, Persimmon Homes Wessex sales director, said: “Moreton-in-Marsh cricket club displayed all the qualities that make a perfect community champion.

“The club is making great strides on and off the field and we are proud to support such an inclusive and welcoming organisation.

“Persimmon’s community champions initiative donates up to £64,000 to groups across the UK every month to help increase opportunity for all.

“The ladies team in Moreton-in-Marsh has had a fantastic formative year and we hope this donation will allow the team to continue its development in the years to come.”

The support has been made through Persimmon’s community champions scheme which has handed out more than £5 million to good causes across the UK since its launch. 

Moreton-in-Marsh ladies team will also be undertaking an eight hour sponsored batting session in September to raise a target of £500 for additional training equipment.

To apply for Persimmon’s community champions funding visit bit.ly/3RFidRU