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The Pavilion at Bentley Cricket Club

The Old Pavilion was bought for £120.00 in 1963 and was an ex-American prefab, used to house servicemen during World War II.
This was erected during the winter of 1963/64 and was completed in time for the season of 1964 at the new ground in Coxtie Green Road.
The work was done entirely by members of the Club, brought together and organised by the then Chairman, Bill Wood.

In the mid 1990’s, after many great years of use, it was decided that it was probably time to replace the Pavilion. Under the guidance of Club Chairman, Dave Smith, many different ways were investigated on how to raise the money needed to rebuild. Eventually, Malcolm Horswill came to the rescue and gained us a lottery grant from Sport England.

The demolition of the old Pavilion started in October 1999 and the foundations for the new building were completed by the beginning of November. Passmores delivered and erected the new Pavilion at the beginning of December. James Wiffen felted the roof and everything was ready for the interior work, which was then started by John Wood and a team of helpers.

By Christmas, enough was completed to enable the Club to hold a New Years party in the new Pavilion. Work continued throughout the next 4 months before the 2000 season, finishing the week before the first game.

The club room had the carpet laid by Peter Flack on the day of the first game and it was furnished with new furniture paid for by donations given by members and friends of the Club.

The Pavilion was officially opened on 18^th June 2000 by Keith Pont, ex-Essex C.C.C. and National Development Officer ECB.