A YOUNG cricket player has penned a letter urging people to support the fight to save his beloved club.
Alex Gilbert, 12, has put pen to paper in a bid to save Charlton Kings Cricket Club, where he plays in the under-13 team.
The club, which was founded in 1885, could be forced to close if it loses a High Court battle over the land where it plays.
Cheltenham widow Jacki Mitchell is trying to seize control of part of the land where the club plays in Greenway Lane.
It used to be owned by Arthur Mitchell, Jacki's father-in-law, who gifted the land to the club for use.
The club has racked up more than £120,000 in costs during the 20-month battle so far, and needs another £120,000 to continue the fight.
Despite having to travel 25 miles from his home to reach the club, Alex has never lost his passion for the organisation.
He journeys from his village in the Cotswolds twice a week, and the Hatherop Castle school pupil said he has fallen in love with the club and sport.
"I have been here for about a year and half and I love it here," he said.
"It is a great club, and a lot of fun. You meet loads of nice people here, and I've made a lot of friends since I started.
"It is very important the club remains open. If it doesn't, where else would I go? I really want to play at this club.
"I hope to play professionally when I grow up, and the coaches here are absolutely fantastic.
"They know what they are talking about, and they let you have a say about how you want to play, and consider it. They have taught me so much."
Cricket development officer Geoff White said donations have been rolling in since the Echo launched a campaign urging people to support the club.
He said they will tally up the running total soon.
To donate, go to www.charltonkingscc.com.
