1946-63 continued.In 1955-56 a new young element from Berkhamsted School joined the club. They had no experience but were very keen. They included Michael and Tarn Hodder, Martin Ranwell, Ian Weatherston and Chris Hawkings among others. To them must go much of the credit for the rapid increase in membership. Each of them was soon active on the committee and proved themselves leaders on and off the field.
From 1956 Laurence Viney, Pat Dodds and Brian Lawrence each captained the 1st XI for two seasons. The first of the three was fortunate in that his term coincided with a surge of new interest. During Pat Dodd's time the seed already sown grew to maturity under his popular leadership and Brian Lawrence added tactical experience which had been obviously lacking.
Our present 1st XI captain is David Leach, who has proved a splendid and conscientious leader. Move to the Cow RoastThe major decision, taken in 1957, to move from our single rented pitch at the Town's sports ground to our own with space for two at the Cow Roast, was made necessary by the club's growth. Three Xls cannot decently be run with only one pitch available. Many were the meetings and doubts before the decision was taken to buy the ground for £1,000 and to spend another £1,500 on new changing rooms and other equipment.
With the help of grants from the Ministry of Education and a friendly bank manager of considerable foresight, a good start was made. During the summer of 1958 complete new changing rooms with all mod cons were built with all the unskilled preparatory and erection work being carried out by volunteer crews from members. (See illustrations on page 28). Three years later many of the same group of members built a most welcome extension to the club room.
In five years we have spent on capital account a total of £2,910 of which we have paid off £2,007, £1,137 of this has been raised by appeal and special efforts and the balance from Ministry of Education and other grants. £900 still has to be found and the committee is confident this sum will be raised in the next few years.
Our own ground is an asset indeed although, for the 5th XI, we are now loaned - most generously by Mr. Moule of Champneys - a third pitch within two miles of the Cow Roast. In conclusion The expansion would not have been possible without tremendous encouragement from many individuals, clubs and members. Not least would one mention the great support received from the late John Jewell when President of Herts, other County officials, our Presidents and Vice-Presidents, the parents of members and a great number of friends in the town who have all contributed towards our progress. L.V.
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