Sleaford CC Annual Magazine 2017 Sleaford Cricket Club Annual Magazine 2017 | Page 18

HALF CENTURY SINCE OFFICIAL OPENING OF CLUB PAVLION
“The old Clubhouse had heavy shutters over the glass less windows. These shutters would be opened up during matches and if a ball
was hit fairly well, it could go straight through the windows into the Clubhouse. Those inside would get a bit of a shock!! During a windy
match day, these shutters could also blow shut with quite a loud bang during play!
During those original match days, players and members did not have a functioning toilet. They had to use a hut at the rear of the Club-
house where an open pipe went into a cesspit which was not always emptied regularly. At times, it was a definite 'NO GO' area!!
John Robinson's father spent some years as Groundsman at the Club and during his time there the wicket was directly in line with the
Clubhouse. Some makeshift sight screens were replaced by wooden ones. Unfortunately, when they were in use, no one could see the
cricket match as the sight screens were directly in front of the Clubhouse!! There were no benches for supporters in those days, so deck
chairs were placed each side of the sight screen.
Also during his time as Groundsman, it took 8 men - 4 on each handle - to push the roller to the wicket. It was previously the front
roller of a large steam roller so was extremely heavy. On one occasion, there was a problem with the roller and it suddenly stopped with
the handle coming up and John's father was completely knocked out.
When the new Clubhouse was opened, there was a bar which was run by volunteers who were members of the Club on a rota system.
The bar had to be closed by 10.30pm. On one occasion, John Robinson was behind the bar still serving members and supporters at
almost 11 pm. The door opened and two policemen stood there. John asked "what can I do for you gentlemen"? rather nervously as it
was an offence to serve after time. Fortunately, the two policemen were Laurie Townell and Alan Housam who replied "Mine's a pint,
please". Laughter and great relief all around.” - John Robinson