THE purchase of new sight screens could prove vital in the progress of a Tyne Valley sports club.

Tynedale Cricket Club, which is based in Hexham, have been able to purchase two screens with thanks to a £2,000 donation from the Hexham West representative of Northumberland County Council, Derek Kennedy.

Coun. Kennedy, a keen sportsman who is a member of the adjacent Tynedale Tennis Club, provided financial support through the council's members local improvement schemes initiative.

And the donation could prove a big lifeline for the club in the long-term as it harbours hopes of progressing through the North-East leagues.

Should they be successful in winning the Northumberland and Tyneside League, the club need the improved screens to meet the criteria for the Holy Grail of grassroots teams of the North East Premier League.

The investment will also allow the club's blossoming youth section to run two junior games at the same time or a game and net wicket on the go at once.

Coun. Kennedy, who has provided financial contributions to solar panels, double glazing, decking and a roller at the club over the years, said: "I am delighted to provide further support to Tynedale Cricket Club based here in Hexham.

"The club goes from strength to strength and the sight screens enhance the clubs facilities.

"The club is ambitious and has designs on being promoted to the North East Premier League in which high quality sight screens are mandatory.

"The two screens can also help with junior cricket as two matches can be run in parallel."