EBAY DRIVE
Whitburn have launched an internet fundraising drive to raise cash to buy new facilities for sporting youngsters.
Bosses at Whitburn Cricket Club are appealing for unwanted items to flog on auction website Ebay so they can buy a state-of-the-art bowling machine.
The club says the new equipment will help get more youngsters interested in the summer sport.
Club second XI captain Paul Sculpher, 38, said: 'We're hoping to raise enough to pay for a bowling machine, which will help the club attract even more youngsters and keep them occupied.
'You often hear that there's nothing to do for kids these days – the club's doing its best to help out, so please drop by and donate anything suitable that you can spare.'
The club, which runs four junior teams – under-11s, under-13s, under- 15s and under-18s – was founded in 1862, and attracts scores of visitors each weekend to watch games.
Mr Sculpher said: 'We feel that the club is a key part of the local community, and running a bar every night, as well as employing a full-time groundsman and professional player, doesn't come cheap.
'I've got the whole second XI doing their bit, whether it be listing the items, packing them ready for posting or taking them to the post office.
'We reckon most people have an old unwanted or already watched DVD set lying around, and mobile phones are also ideal.'
The club, sponsored by local industrial firm Universal Sealants, is looking for items like DVD box sets, computer games, old mobile phones and similar easy-to-post goods.
Suitable donations can be dropped off at the clubhouse, in Whitburn Road.
