It's difficult not to be distracted by the breathtaking view of Croagh Patrick and Clew Bay that imposes, almost cinematically, upon the luxurious lounge of Knockranny House Hotel, Westport, Co Mayo. However, in a recent conversation with the manager, Mr Paul O'Neill, the dramatic natural contours became incidental, as he explained his quest for four acres of flat, dry land.
If you happen to pass through Castlebar on a Wednesday around 6.30 p.m., don't be surprised to see a group of men, including Paul, in full regalia, playing cricket on the green of the town's Mall. The fact that it was formerly the lawn upon which local landlords, the Lucan family, tested their prowess might lead you to conclude that the scene is one of a local pageant. Wrong conclusion, I'm afraid. While sporting history may be in the making, it is very much a contemporary scene.
Mr O'Neill has been public relations officer for Mayo County Cricket Club for the last two years. When not busy travelling to fixtures around the country, he is urgently trying to acquire proper grounds for the club. "A four-acre site isn't a lot to ask for in a county such as Mayo," he says. "A nice little 99-year lease would suit us just fine."
He warmly acknowledges the support of local businesses, such as Daly's Hotel and Staunton Sports, but also highlights the fact that substantial Government funding is not available for developing the club until it acquires a pitch.
Mayo County Cricket Club was formed in October 1998. It is the only club in the county, although Mr O'Neill is delighted to hear that another is being formed in Ballyhaunis. Membership remains small, but the age span stretches from 11 to 61 years. Ironically, the oldest member, Mr Frank Large, once played professional football for Queen's Park Rangers, and, moreover, can boast of scoring a goal against George Best.
The club plays 10 to 15 fixtures per season from Mullingar to the Phoenix Park in Dublin. Affiliation to the Leinster Cricket Council confirms the seriousness of their commitment. Now, almost two months into their second season and playing one fixture a month on the Mall, one can appreciate the urgency of their quest.
"It was all very fine for the Lucans to bowl and bat in bygone days," Mr O'Neil concludes. "But nowadays the thoroughfare is very busy."
So all you closet cricketers with a few acres to spare, the ball is firmly on your wicket. Mayo County Cricket Club has already picked up a Western People sports award, so get in there with your offer before they become spoiled for choice. Paul O'Neill can be contacted at 094-27906.