Pitch completed at cricket club's new second base

Lancashire County Cricket Club has marked a significant milestone in the building of its new second base with the completion of a professional pitch.

Plans for the facility in Farington, near Leyland, have been under way ever since they were approved in March 2023 amid the "pressing need" for an alternative ground due to the number of matches staged at Old Trafford.

The development now has a modern playing surface complete with natural turf section.

It is hoped the first innings will be played at the ground at the start of the 2026 cricket season for up to 5,000 spectators.

Work started on the project in November 2023, led by Eric Wright Construction, whose headquarters are in Bamber Bridge.

Once fully completed the new development will provide two pitches - one professional and one for the community - and a training area.

The first pitch to be completed has been handed over to the council and club to be developed and maintained.

Matt Merchant, head groundsman at Lancashire Cricket, said it marked a "really exciting day for the club".

He said: "Specialist work will now begin to take place by our grounds team in order to ensure the pitch is bedded in and prepared ahead of cricket taking place at Farington during the 2026 season."

The base will also serve as a North West Centre of Excellence for the women's game.

Lancashire cricketers Tom Bailey and Alice Clarke visited the new pitch along with Mr Merchant and former Lancashire and England bowler Paul Allott.

Lancashire County Council leader Phillippa Williamson said: "This pioneering facility is one of a kind in the UK, and we're incredibly proud and excited to be delivering this in Lancashire."

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also send story ideas to [email protected]