Co-op’s co-operation gives Bosham cricketers a boost

scheme at their Bosham stores over the past year.

Launched last October with a free community party, the Bosham community support scheme to donate up to £10,000 to the cricket club ran at their Bosham stores in Delling Lane and Station Road.

The scheme is a way for local charities and good causes to raise funds with the backing of customers, but without costing shoppers a penny to support. The recipients are chosen by members of the Southern Co-operative who shop and work at the participating store to ensure the funding directly benefits the local community.

John Strudwick, Bosham Cricket Club captain, said: “Cricket has been played in the village for more than 100 years and is an important part of village life.

“The club is open to all residents and friends of Bosham and neighbouring villages. We’re really grateful to the Southern Co-operative for this £10,000 donation and appreciate the effort from the Bosham community to support the scheme.

“We’ll use this to finance the preparation and maintenance of the cricket square and outfield. We also need changing rooms to comply with league regulations. This is an on-going project which is the next step into creating a local sports club open to all ages, playing at good levels, in beautiful surroundings.”

The Southern Co-operative’s retail business manager in Bosham, Paul Chatfield, said: “Bosham village is a very close community and support for our store’s fundraising and community initiatives is always very strong, as demonstrated by the success of this scheme.

“I know the cricket club really appreciate all the support from our customers and have said they would like to come into the store to help customers pack their shopping bags by way of a thank you to show their appreciation.”