STROUD Cricket Club is set to have a new pavilion just two months after its historic home was destroyed in an arson attack - and it's coming all the way from the Balkans.

The club's business manager Tony Elliott-Cannon travelled to Estonia three weeks ago to visit construction companies about the project.

Provided the group is given planning permission, materials will be shipped over in March.

The new wooden building, which will cost more than £100,000, will be bigger than the old one.

"Buildings in Estonia are designed to withstand temperatures of minus 30C so the materials have much better thermal qualities than conventional concrete or brick," said Tony.

"Also the buildings look very attractive and can be assembled within four weeks of being delivered - so it should be open for the start of the cricket season in April.

"I am absolutely delighted the trustees and the committee has given it the go ahead, and the players are pleased because they thought they may be lumbered with portable buildings."

Despite the £65,000 from insurance and £8,000 raised from its appeal, the club still has a shortfall of more than £30,000.

"We are determined to raise the money," said Tony.

"We are looking into applying for sports grants and continuing with the fundraising events - if all else fails we will get a loan.

"The response from local traders has been fantastic - Tile Trader in Stonehouse donated £2,500.

"If there are any kitchen supply companies out there which would like to help us we would be eternally grateful."

The club's junior team will be helping supermarket shoppers with packing to raise cash next month.

* Contributions can be made to Stroud Cricket Club Appeal Fund at Lloyds TSB.