The Lancashire Cricket Board, after months of reorganisation behind the scenes, finally presented its proposals for a more streamlined Executive to the 13th AGM last night (11th March 2010) at Old Trafford.

Changes to the constitution, which demand representatives from all aspects of the game within Lancashire, were passed unanimously. This meant that, in effect, membership of constituent bodies was halved, to leave 4 members representing Leagues, 4 from LCCC, 1 from the Lancashire Cricket Federation, 1 from Lancashire Schools and 1 from the Lancashire Youth Cricket Committee. The Treasurer makes this 12. The Chairman oF LCCC is always invited to attend as President of the Board. This takes the numbers from an original Board of 21 down to a more manageable 13.

Other regular members are the Director of LCB, the Director of Cricket at LCCC and the LCB Secretary, but they are not entitled to vote.

It was felt that this was necessary as we move into a very important period in LCB history. It is likely, during 2010, that we will turnover in excess of £1million for the first time and that the Board need to fully understand their responsibilities in respect of this. Although the quality and amount of professional staff has grown over the past 4 years, it is still the Board that is the decision making body and it is vital that members of the Executive are aware of national and local initiatives to be able to make informed decisions.

Many County Boards nationally have been through this process to ensure that they are fit for purpose and able to take on this increased responsibility.

After an anxious period, the County Club had great news last night when Trafford Council passed their plans to revitalise Old Trafford into a top international venue. In addition to the plans highlighted on the front page, there will be a further impact on the Board with the extension to the excellent Indoor Cricket Centre at Old Trafford. This will house new LCB offices and provide more space in which clubs, schools, districts, women, girls, disabilities and County squads can train.

This will be a shot in the arm for Lancashire Cricket as a whole and our colleagues in Cheshire have also supported this development to aid their elite coaching structure.

Although this is only part of the big picture at Old Trafford, this will enhance the stadium as the focal point for cricket in the County as well as securing Test cricket in Manchester for years to come.

Andrew N Hayhurst
Director