Cricketers in Narberth are gearing up for a good innings this season as new practice facilities have been introduced at the club's ground. The new net facility was completed last month with the help of a PRIDE grant administered by Pembrokeshire County Council with the assistance of local Clr. Wynne Evans. The brains behind the scheme was Narberth Cricket Club committee member Mr. Nick Evans, who came up with the idea and development. The overall cost of the development was £12,000. A new bowling machine was also purchased from funds raised during the club's first 'Cricket Ball' held back in November, which will now become an annual event due to its success and demand from the Narberth community. "The new season begins tomorrow (Saturday) and the new practice facilities have already proved massively beneficial," said the club's chairman, Huw Simpkins. "We would like to express sincere thanks to all who contributed, in particular the club's sponsors, Young Bros, of Llandissilio; Williams Vision, of Narberth; Woodfield Caravan Park; and Mark and Wendy at the Angel Inn, Narberth. "Without the suppoprt of these very generous businesses, the development would not have been possible and will enormously benefit all of our cricketers from age nine to our seniors. "A big thanks also goes Clr. Wynne Evans for his help and guidance in getting the financial support from PRIDE," added Huw. The club also recently participated in the Natwest Cricket Force initiative which proved a big success, with Narberth gaining a bigger turnout than any club this side of Cardiff.