{"id":562335,"date":"2026-05-02T11:53:15","date_gmt":"2026-05-02T11:53:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/562335\/"},"modified":"2026-05-02T11:53:15","modified_gmt":"2026-05-02T11:53:15","slug":"bolton-ao-boss-invests-in-the-barlows-cricket-ground","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/562335\/","title":{"rendered":"Bolton AO boss invests in The Barlow’s cricket ground"},"content":{"rendered":"

\n The new look cricket ground in Edgworth<\/a> is being hailed as a major boost for the village, and is set to open today [2 May].\n<\/p>\n

\n While the building work at The Barlow has caused some disruption, The Barlow<\/a> said the long\u2011term benefits are clear.\n<\/p>\n

\n The project has been funded by AO boss John Roberts and his wife, Sally,<\/a> through the Jolly Foundation, with work underway to improve facilities at the popular ground.\n<\/p>\n

\n John Marriott, chairman of The Barlow, said: \u201cSometimes it can be a hindrance with all the building work, but we\u2019ve worked around it and worked together.\n<\/p>\n

\n John Marriott. (Image: NQ)\n<\/p>\n

\n \u201cAll this is possible because of the two wonderful people, John and Sally Roberts. They\u2019ve invested the money in this area, and we\u2019re incredibly grateful.\n<\/p>\n

\n \u201cThis will be a huge win for the community. It will improve the area, and it\u2019s already one of the most popular villages around here.\u201d\n<\/p>\n

\n Mr Marriott said the refurbishment would strengthen Barlow\u2019s role as a community hub.\n<\/p>\n

\n The cricket ground. (Image: NQ)\n<\/p>\n

\n The cricket ground<\/a> forms part of a wider group of facilities, including the Barlow Institute and bowling club, which host events for residents of all ages.\n<\/p>\n

\n Alongside the cricket ground is a refurbished shed which will sell pizzas, which was successful before refurbishments.\n<\/p>\n

\n Mr Marriott said increased use of the site would benefit everyone involved. \u201cIt\u2019s a full benefit for the Barlow, no matter what happens here.\n<\/p>\n

\n \u201cMore people using the facilities helps us all.\u201d\n<\/p>\n

\n The new building. (Image: NQ)\n<\/p>\n

\n He also praised the charitable nature of the project, as Mr Roberts has donated millions, and John praised it as a good investment for the community.\n<\/p>\n

\n Once complete, the refurbished ground is expected to attract more players, spectators and visitors, further strengthening community life inThe Barlow.\n<\/p>\n

\n The improvements are expected to enhance not only the playing facilities but also the overall experience for visitors, helping to secure the future of grassroots cricket in the village.\n<\/p>\n

\n He said the refurbished ground would encourage more young people to get involved in sport, while providing a welcoming space for families and residents to come together.\n<\/p>\n

\n \u201cIt\u2019s about making sure The Barlow continues to be a place where people want to spend time,\u201d Mr Marriott added. \u201cThis kind of support helps us do exactly that.\u201d\n<\/p>\n

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