Andy - we would be taking standing spaces off to lower the ground maintenance costs if we did the work I suggested, that's why the quote was so high. Statto - there's no way we can afford all that work right now, but as you said, I think improving the members seating and covered seating is what has to be done in the immediate term.

Right, revised suggestions:

Option A - Adding 1000 covered seats and 500 members seats costs £100,000.
Option B - Adding 500 covered seats and 500 members seats costs £85,000.

Going for option A will leave us £140,000 in debt, though what we make from the home game (this Friday) and the cup game this week (the team we are playing have a large capacity so hopefully we'll make a bit from the game next Sunday) will offset that a bit immediately. I suggest doing that, as we have more than enough members and support to fill those seats immediately.

The seats will pay for themselves, and it seems there's not much we can do about the standing room for now - this seems like it was expanded too much in the past. If this is causing us a problem in the future once we recover the cost of this work we could do something about it then.

I agree about Marsh, he has already improved since last week with his bowling and fitness nets, and a batting net will help our tail have a less bunny-like appearance from 9 to 11 once he overtakes Macey in terms of ability. As for the bargains, it's my job (!) - but a 17-year old competent bowler for £1k was too good to miss!

One more thing. I have a long term plan to move Beattie to 4 and Wright to 5, and once Heskey's batting is good enough to move him to 5 and Wright to 6. IMO 6 is the best position for Wright long term, but for now we need him at 4.