SUNSHINE and squeals of delight from children and parents signalled the start of this season’s All Stars Cricket scheme in Middleton-in-Teesdale last week.
The eight-week initiative, devised by the England and Wales Cricket Board introduces youngsters aged five to eight years to the game and Middleton is one of several clubs across the dale to host All Stars sessions.
Although the weather has been particularly poor so far this season, 27 youngsters and their parents were able to soak up the sun’s rays for the first hour-long session last week.
Coach Anth Coatsworth said: “We had the opportunity last year, but we didn’t want to take the risk. It’s the third year we’ve run it.
“The first year we had about 14 sign up and the last time we ran it there were about 24, so we’re really pleased there has been such a high take up this year.
“There is a plan that we follow each week with four activities for them to try and get their parents involved as well.
“It’s about having fun and enjoying themselves.”
Activities change each week and are aimed at improving hand-eye co-ordination and movement relating to cricket. As well as enjoying eight weeks of packed activities, participating youngsters get a digital activity booklet and a personalised kit including orange plastic bat.
