Garboldisham Cricket Club used their annual President's X1 match to officially open their stunning new pavilion extension.

At the lunch break Chairman Robert Leech addressed almost 100 assembled players and guests and explained that with the second pitch now in full use, extra changing rooms dining area and improved kitchen facilities were all needed to be able to hold simultaneous matches.

Work started in mid-May and was completed in time for the celebration on Sunday.

He thanked all who had contributed to the project, in particular the builders, Andrew and Chris Davey from Garboldisham, for their thorough and professional work which drew much acclaim from all present.

He contended that the facilities now match anywhere in the county and were 'crying out for Premier Division cricket'.

He issued a challenge to the hugely talented group of young players now playing in the first and second teams to go out and sell their club to attract the players to help them achieve that aim.

The official 'cutting the ribbon' ceremony was performed by Jane Lambert, wife of new Club President Trevor Lambert, and builder Andrew Davey. Also pictured are Trevor Lambert and Robert Leech. After Trevor had proposed a toast to the future of the club, a superb lunch was enjoyed by all.

The game itself matched the celebratory mood of the day. The President's team were invited to make first use of yet another superb wicket prepared by Andy Smith and duly posted a par score of 271 for 6.

Main contributors were John Olpin with 50, Neil Fox 51, Ryan Findlay 39 and ex- county captain and coach David Thoams 25 not out after digging his bat out of the loft for the first time in five years.

In reply, the club side started brightly with overseas player Mitchell Hinds keen to sign off with a significant innings. He had previously been commended for his immense contribution throughout the summer, both for his coaching in local schools and at the club and also for his performances on the pitch. He nicked one and was caught behind having scored 24 but left the field to a standing ovation.

Ian Melvin, in his 30th season of first team cricket with the club, was at his stylish best and looked set for a hundred until bowled by Neil Fox for 89. With his dismissal the momentum was lost and in spite of Charlie Wright's 42 not out the club side finished 30 runs short on 240 for 9.