Plea for help after pavilion is razed to the ground

Wirksworth and Middleton Cricket Club’s pavilion, off Porter Lane in Middleton, was already reduced to ashes when fire crews arrived at the scene at 4am on Sunday.

Chairman, Sue Marshall, said: “It looks like a bomb has hit it. It is burnt to the ground.

“We are devastated by this fire. Everything has gone.

“If anyone can help with temporary accommodation or portable toilets we would be very grateful. We have lost everything - cricket equipment, chairs, tables, all our catering equipment. It will take money and time to replace it all. Please we need your help.”

The site, which is the second ground for Wirksworth and Middleton Cricket Club, is used for youth matches and the third team home fixtures. It is also used in the winter by The Albion Football Club.

“Our first task is to rearrange fixtures so that we can continue to play cricket” she added. “The club has been in existence since 1889 and we are absolutely determined to continue to play cricket there, but this is a major setback.”

A police probe into the cause of the fire is continuing.

If you can help the club, call them on 01335 372797