Lancashire cricketer Steve Croft has been smashing balls at the new argon-filled double-glazing on Old Trafford’s new £12m conference and events centre.

Organisers are promised plenty of natural light at The Point, where the centre’s pitch-facing front is made entirely of glass.  The 100 double-glazed units weigh in at 21 tons.

Sales manager for The Point, Peter Ash says: “Because of the nature of what happens on the pitch, it was key to ensure the challenges of this complex project were addressed from design to completion.

“The catering staff are now reassured that flying cricket balls won’t mean them having to pad up prior to commencing their silver service duties.”

The Point is due to open in July and will be able to accommodate a conference for 1,000 people

Celebrity chef Paul Heathcote, MBE, has joined LCCC in the role of catering consultant and says: “The new world-class venue is impressive. I am confident that we can support the existing team to help fulfil its ambitions, however I won’t be available on Wednesdays in the summer unless I am dropped by my local village cricket team.”

The Point is part of Phase One of an overall £85m development at the ground.