AN offer by the David Shepherd Cricket Trust’s to supply helmet and balls to cricket clubs in West Devon proved a big hit last year.

The offer was so successful last year it is being repeated ahead of the new season, writes Conrad Sutcliffe.

The trust, which supports youth coaching and cricket development in Devon, offered clubs three adjustable helmets and a box of six youth-weight cricket balls for a considerably reduced cost price.

More than 30 clubs with youth sections took advantage of the scheme last year – and the list of recipients is a real cross-section of Devon cricket.

Among the clubs to benefit in 2016 from the offer were Chagford, Buckland, Bridestowe, Tavistock, Yelverton Bohemians and Lewdown.

The offer proved so popular with clubs the trust is running it again.

The package contains three helmets – one red, one blue and one green – and a box of six balls.

All the helmets come embossed with DSCT - David Shepherd Cricket Trust – stitched on to them.

Stuart Munday, a former fast bowler with Tavistock and one of the trustees, said he expected a brisk demand for the helmets.

‘They all went very quickly last year, which is why we have decided to run the offer again,’ said Stuart. ’If anyone is interested I would suggest they get their application in quick.’

Matt Theedom, the cricket development manager for Devon, said the helmet and balls offer was a huge help to clubs with youth sections.

‘I think it is a very practical way for the David Shepherd Cricket Trust to help clubs and shows how in touch they are with the cricket community,’ said Matt.

‘The offer is fantastic value for money when you look at the cost of helmets, never mind match balls. I would urge any club with a youth section to get their application in now.’

Applications should be made to Trust treasurer Gavin Lane by email to [email protected]

The latest offer is part of the David Shepherd Cricket Trust’s annual £20,000 investment in youth cricket. Grants are available for other purposes, such as coach education and specialist coaching sessions.

To find out more about the trust and its work, visit www.dsct111.org.uk