CHAGFORD Cricket Club youth section has been given a helpful boost by a local firm with sponsorship.

Helpful Holidays, the South West holiday cottage specialist, is sponsoring the youth section for the next five years.

Moray Bowater, general manager of the sponsors, said: 'Thanks to the energy and commitment of many people in Chagford, we have a cricket pitch and pavilion which would be remarkable anywhere; for a town as small as Chagford to have such an outstanding facility is truly wonderful.'

Chris Mount, the club's cricket youth development officer adds, 'We're aiming to take cricket into local schools to broaden participation in the game and involve more local children.

'Chagford Cricket Club is paying for coaches to go to Chagford Primary School, and then to North Tawton and South Tawton Primary Schools. The idea is to give the children a chance to play the game. If they enjoy playing cricket, they can come to the Chagford cricket ground to develop their skills in a safe, friendly and encouraging environment.

'With parental involvement and support, this project will be able to provide a tremendous opportunity and benefit to children in the area. Last night, at our first practice session, 40 children turned up. We need drivers, sandwich makers, fundraisers and assistant coaches, and will find a role for anyone who'd like to take part.'

For more details call Chris Mount on 07703 542697.