Tigers get a boost from chicken giants

Not only have Moy Park announced a three-year sponsorship deal with Lurgan Tigers, but the cricket section has been chosen to pilot a new youth development programme.

The major coup for the club was announced at a press conference at Pollock Park on Monday.

Graeme Hunter, Chair of the Cricket Section, said: "We're extremely grateful to Moy Park for their sponsorship. Lurgan Tigers have gone from strength to strength over the last two years, with over 200 children now registered.

"The aim is to continue to develop and reach out to more children in the community."

He added: "We have two under 15 rugby players with the Ulster development set up and two cricketers in the Ireland youth squad. The pilot programme will give even more talented players room to improve their game."

In what could be another major development at the club Graeme said Lurgan Ladies Hockey Club were hoping to join the cricketers and rugby players and set up home at Pollock Park.

Lurgan Tigers' new sponsors, Moy Park, struck it lucky during the World Cup when their advert appeared on billboard just as Frank Lampard scored the goal that never was.

Alan Gibson of Moy Park said: "When I met Bill (Baird), Graeme (Hunter) and Jonny (Gillespie) their passion for their club was very obvious. It's all about being a team. What Lurgan is doing is aligned with what we're doing at Moy Park.

"We have been involved with the club for quite some time. This partnership is about putting back into the community."

Mark Garaway of Cricket Ireland said the main aim of the pilot scheme was to establish a coaching team at Lurgan to do specialist work with young cricketers before they get involved at higher levels. The only other pilot scheme of its kind in Ireland is based at Muckamore.

Mayor of Craigavon Stephen Moutray said: "Not only as Mayor, but as someone who lives in the immediate vicinity, the work that goes on here week in week out is fabulous."

He congratulated the club on its level of commitment to train young people and welcomed the sponsorship boost and the club's selection as a centre of excellence.