WORCESTER Nomads have been able to occupy the crease for longer this season after the club gave their ageing wicket roller a new lease of life.
During the close season, the club obtained a substantial grant from The Severn Waste Environmental Fund which is part of the Landfill Communities Fund to bring the ageing piece of equipment up to 2017 requirements.
Manufacturers, Autoguide Equipment Ltd, of Calne, carried out the upgrade, meaning the days of groundstaff cranking the engine to start it are over.
The revamped roller now has the luxury of electric starting, power steering and a comfortable seat.
And now there is no shortage of volunteers to carry out the laborious task of rolling the wicket each week as the club expands its use of the ground by staging matches for the University of Worcester, Worcestershire Ladies at age group level and Worcestershire seniors.
Club matches continue to be held while the revamped equipment opens up the availability of the ground for community use with the excellent off-field facilities.
The club was also indebted to Graph Survey Partnership of Whitbourne and the England and Wales Cricket Board for assistance.
Nomads were delighted to learn the roller is the only Autoguide roller in the country in mint green.