New Farnley CC grateful for support after arson attack on clubhouse

JACK BUTLER: Late on Monday evening, West Yorkshire Police were called to the Bradford Cricket League club to investigate the incident, which is being treated as arson

New Farnley Cricket Club, based in Leeds, were victims of an arson attack on their clubhouse that has caused over £100,000 worth of damage.

Late on Monday evening, West Yorkshire Police were called to the cricket club to investigate the attack, which is now being treated as arson.

Speaking a few days after the incident, Noel Bullock, a member of New Farnley CC, told The Cricketer of the club's recovery: "It's been a hard year for us…there's probably over £100,000 worth of damage. For this to happen is a bit of cruel blow.

"We've had offers of help, messages. Fellow clubs have given the offer of support, taking the hat round in matches, for example.

"The thing that's the annoying thing more than anything is why they did it? Who knows? It doesn't make any sense."

In recent days, New Farnley CC have set up a crowdfunding appeal that has now raised over £5,000 to rebuild the clubhouse.

^{At the time of publishing, the club had raised £6,991}

Originally a potato field that was made into a cricket ground twenty years ago, the club's presence has become crucial to the surrounding community. 

In a statement published on the club's Twitter account, New Farnley CC chairman John Baldwin described the irreparable damage caused by a "senseless act".

"It is only due to our incredible neighbours and the West Yorkshire Fire Service, who on the night acted swiftly and effectively, that the destruction could be contained at all. My wholehearted thanks and gratitude go out to them.

"The committee have been overwhelmed by the response we have received since the news broke," he added.

"In just 24 hours we have achieved our £5,000 fundraising target - we are very grateful to have such a strong sense of community spirit.

"We will be doing everything to get the cricket club back up and running as quickly as possible."

The appeal can be found here: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/newfarnleyfire