Bosses at a 155-year-old cricket club have thanked the community for its support as the ball gets rolling to rebuild its fire-hit pavilion.

Members of Hampton Hill Cricket Club were left devastated after a fire destroyed their 55-year-old club house in Bushy Park in November.

But three months on and plans are now under way for a new clubhouse to be built in the park, with the club working closely with Royal Parks, Richmond Council and the architect to come up with suitable designs.

More than £15,000 has already been raised towards the £50,000 target needed for the new pavilion thanks to donations and through the club’s fundraising efforts, including selling Christmas cards.

Club chairman David Mackinney said: "We have been astounded by the level of support shown by the local community in respect of the fire.

“Whether it has been message of support, offers of assistance in any way and especially donations to the fund.

“We have always said we were a club with strong roots in the community, and it is so pleasing to see that borne out "

The adult and youth teams will continue to play in the park throughout the summer and new members of all ages and abilities are being urged to come forward and join the club. For more information visit hamptonhill.play-cricket.com.