Adam Dance MP officially opens new cricket nets at Yeovil Cricket Club

Yeovil MP Adam Dance has officially opened a brand-new set of cricket nets at Yeovil Cricket Club, marking a major milestone for grassroots sport in the town.

The opening ceremony, held on Friday 2 May, was attended by players, coaches, community supporters, and special guests including the family of the late Nick Dyke, in whose honour the nets have been named. Mr Dance cut the ceremonial ribbon and paid tribute to the club’s vital role in supporting local young people.

Yeovil Cricket Club, formerly Westland Sports Cricket Club, supports over 110 children from Yeovil and the surrounding area through its youth programme. With no cricket nets or practice facilities in local schools, the club provides the only opportunity for many local children to play and learn the sport.

Speaking at the event, Adam Dance MP said:

“I was honoured to open the new cricket nets and meet the brilliant volunteers and young players who make Yeovil Cricket Club such a vital part of our community. This is more than just a sports facility—it’s an investment in our young people, our wellbeing, and our local future. I’ll continue to do all I can to support grassroots sport and youth opportunities in our area.”

The project was made possible thanks to a remarkable community effort, with funding raised from a combination of club contributions, insurance, the Tony Coles Trust, and a successful crowdfunding campaign that raised thousands in just three weeks. The newly installed facility will ensure the continuation of youth cricket in Yeovil for years to come.

Scott Ewens, Vice Chair and Secretary of Yeovil Cricket Club, said:

“This facility secures the future of youth cricket here in Yeovil. Our volunteer coaches give their time week in, week out, and we’re proud that we’ve been able to deliver something so important for the next generation of players. Huge thanks to Adam Dance MP for supporting us and officially opening the nets.”

The new nets replace older facilities that were severely damaged during storms last year, putting the club’s youth training programme at risk. The new installation represents a long-term investment in the town’s only cricket ground and its growing community of young cricketers.