Mannofield, normally the scene of north-east cricket action will fulfil a new role today – becoming a beer garden.
Aberdeenshire Cricket Club president Willie Donald hailed the temporary enterprise.
“There have been some amazing cricketing exploits at Mannofield over the years, but becoming the biggest beer garden in the north-east must be right up there as an achievement for the club.
“Our members have been very patient for the first two months of the season, it’s only right we reward them with something tangible,” said Cricket Scotland president Donald, who was a Mannofield player.
The initiative was supported by club members, with 30% of the 200 who responded to a survey volunteering to get the project up and running.
From today the area outside the boundary will be used as the beer garden.
Kenny Reid, club secretary, player and last season’s club captain was encouraged by the responses and looked forward to welcoming members and their families, in addition to the Aberdeen public.
“No booking will be required, but the users will need to observe strict social distancing rules. They will need to register first and use the one-way queues for drinks while adhering to touch payments only.
“There will be food on sale tomorrow and Sunday, although participants can bring in their picnics if they so wish,” he added.
The opening hours will be from 4pm until 8pm tonight and 12.30pm to 8pm over the weekend.
It is the second major initiative by Mannofield involving the community, after last month extending use of its cricket facilities to individuals and other clubs.