Burley-in-Wharfedale Cricket Club have become one of the first in the country to benefit from the Government's £9.4m Community Club Development Programme.

The Aire-Wharfe League founder members were identified by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) as a club deserving support because of the strength of their junior development programme.

Consequently they have received a grant for £51,294, which has provided for a three-bay synthetic practice area which has boosted the coaching and training facilities.

The Community Club Development Programme is a funding package developed by Sport England and the Government to strenghten links between leading clubs and their communities.

Burley's chairman Nick Brook says: "It was fantastic news to be awarded a grant as our practice facilities were poor and the new synthetic pitches have given us good, safe playing surfaces, which are so important to the development of young players.

"We have over 120 young cricketers at the club and we have been able to introduce a structured coaching programme and all age groups take advantasge of the facilities.

"In recent times the club has made considerable progress as we have also upgraded the pavilion."

Brook added: "We are grateful to the ECB for their most generous support and we regard the grant as an investment in the cricket at the club for the future.

"The new facilities provide more playing opportunities, and this is so important in the development of the players and for the game in general."

Jennie Price, chief executive of Sport England, said: "We are delighted to make this award to Burley in Wharfedale Cricket Club. The facility is key to the local development of cricket."