Ward councillors step up to the crease

12.00.00am GMT Thu 30th Oct 2008

Councillors in East and North East Leeds have committed monies to install new artificial cricket wickets in Roundhay Park.

Over £15,000 is being provided by the Inner East and Inner North East Area Committees to dispose of the existing wickets and install new artificial match wickets.

Members of the local community had voiced concerns over the condition of the facilities and councillors responded by agreeing to work together to provide new wickets.

Speaking of the new wickets, Cllr Alan Taylor (Lib Dem, Gipton and Harehills), lead member for leisure and Inner East Leeds committee member said:

"I am really pleased that the two committees have been able to work together to provide new facilities at Roundhay Park. I know many people in the local area that are interested in playing cricket, it has a large following in my ward, so it is important we ensure they have a place to practice.

"Hopefully the new wickets will be installed in good time and I would urge people to get down to Roundhay once the good weather returns to improve their skills. With such an excellent sporting heritage in Leeds it is important we nurture young talent to ensure our local and national teams succeed in the future."