West Norfolk Cricket Hub given national backing by the MCC

Cricket coaching at King Edward VII High School. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: Archant Norfolk 2015)

Lead coaches Josh Ring and Peter Coote travelled to schools across the area to find the best and most dedicated 16 players in two age groups (under-13s and U15s). And six months later their efforts are being rewarded with 32 youngsters enjoying two hours of cricket coaching each week at King's Lynn's King Edward VII School (KES) and playing matches against other 'hubs' across the country.

Ring, who last season helped Stow win the Norfolk Alliance First Division, said: 'It's a great opportunity for all the players involved. The hub will help develop the standard of state school cricket in West Norfolk and we can't wait to deliver our elite coaching programme.'

Ring and Coote are assisted by Jack Southgate and Tim Coote to provide Level Two standard ECB coaching – which has secured further funding for three years and backing for future developments to run in the district. Reece Bird, national hub director for the MCC Foundation, recently visited the newly established and funded 'West Norfolk Hub' and was very impressed with what he saw.

Head of the West Norfolk programme, as well as sport at KES, Ross McNeil, said: 'This MCC Foundation scheme has been really making a difference and to receive such positive feedback and support from Reece Bird really has made everyone in the 'hub' proud and determined to build on this excellent start.

Cricket coaching at King Edward VII High School. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: Archant Norfolk 2015)

'The scheme will see us take on other hubs from Cambridge, Northampton, Norwich and Essex. These competitive games will be the cherry on top for the lads and provide a great opportunity for them to showcase their talents.'