Whilst the club has owned the freehold since the 1920s, for many years the whole ground and pavilion has been subject to a long lease held by a financial investor. Ten years ago, the financial investor granted a sub-lease of the whole ground to Play On Sports, who now run the nursery in part of the pavilion. During this time, the club had playing rights but little ability to either earn income or control aspects of the ground and in particular the pavilion and scrubland at the top end.

In 2021, funded by a generous loan from Ian McAleavy, a club member, the club was able to purchase the long lease from the investor, but the nursery, the pavilion – including the bar – and top end remained leased to Play On Sports.

We are delighted to say that as of today, June 26, 2025, we have concluded an agreement that sees the club regain ownership of the pavilion, the bar and the top end – formerly tennis courts and a bowls green before being allowed to overgrow – for the first time in two decades.

This is extremely exciting for us. It means that we now have control of these elements and can think about how we use them for the benefit of the club. Over the next few months, we will be formulating ideas for how to improve our offerings, and we'd love for you, as members, to contribute your thoughts.

In the meantime, though, it's particularly significant that this should happen in time for our anniversary Cricket Week, which begins in earnest on Saturday and culminates in the party on Sunday, July 6. If you haven't already, please RSVP using the link below. It will make the celebrations even more special. You can also purchase raffle tickets here.

We are hugely grateful to all those who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this deal happen over several years. It's a game-changer for our club and a fresh start.

We'd love for you to join us for a glass of bubbly at our bar in our clubhouse on Saturday from 6pm - after games and ahead of the evening's barbecue to open the anniversary Cricket Week - to commemorate a landmark moment.

Happy celebrating,
NMCC Committee