Thornton-le-Dale Cricket Club has secured funding from Richard Todd of Allium Organics, via Landfill Tax Credits, and also from The Rob Stephenson Trust, to buy a new net practice facility, electronic scoreboard and pitch covers.

Rob, of Pickering, was 21 years old when he died on March 26, 2016, after being involved in a road collision on a night out in York.

His parents Patrick and Nicki and elder brother Sam set up the Rob Stephenson Trust to help young people participate in sport. The trust has so far raised more than £125,000.

Rob, who was a rugby player with Malton and Norton Rugby Club and a cricketer with Thornton-le-Dale Cricket Club, was in the third year of an agriculture degree at Newcastle University, with honours in agronomy.

Graham Hunt, from the club, said: “Rob was a much-loved former player and it is hoped the improvements will attract younger players to come and play at this picturesque ground.” He added: “Thornton-le-Dale’s ground is one of the best in the league and members of the club are also celebrating winning the league spirit of cricket award for the second time.”

For more information about the club, go to www.thorntondalecc.co.uk