A YOUNG cricketer from Okehampton is seeking sponsorship after he has been selected for his county to take part in a tour of South Africa.

Billy Searle, 14, has been chosen for the Devon Youth development tour to the 'Rainbow nation' from February 10-27, 2011. Billy, an Okehampton College pupil, is delighted to have been selected and excited at the prospect of playing on the tour in Western Province.

The college U15s captain said:?'I play all sports but my favourites are cricket and rugby. I have been selected for Devon in both and have played county cricket for the last two years.

'My ambition is to be a professional sportsman so I am thrilled to be picked for the tour and will work very hard to earn the sponsorship I need.'

Team manager Alan Swift said: 'All the players who tour will have already represented Devon and therefore are the best players in their age group in the county. However, to play overseas against quality opposition is a unique extension to the experiences gained by playing county fixtures and it is pleasing to note that several tour graduates have subsequently gone on to represent England at various age groups while others have been selected to play for Devon in the Minor Counties Championship.'

The cricketer is now appealing for personal sponsorship from individuals and businesses in West Devon. Billy needs to raise £2,150 and organisers suggest up to £50 from each sponsor, whose name would appear in the official tour brochure. They are also opportunities to advertise in the brochure.

For more details call Billy on 01837 54181 or 0790 0838117.