Local cricket clubs around Whitchurch and Wem are set to give youngsters a chance of competitive cricket with a series of midweek Twenty20 matches.

The mini-tourney, hosted by Prees Cricket Club at their Recreation Ground base, will see a competition between the home club, Iscoyd & Fenns Bank, Calverhall and Coton Hall, staring next month.

Alan Cliff, from Coton Hall, believes the competition is perfect for young players and to forge links among the clubs.

He said: “Prees Cricket Club host Twenty20 matches between Fenns Bank, Calverhall, Coton and themselves on Wednesday evenings starting with Coton Hall v Calverhall on May 15.

“The emphasis is on player development in a friendly, but competitive atmosphere.

“After the final match on June 19 there is a barbecue and a presentation evening will be held on June 26 at Prees Sports and Social Club. Coton Hall’s match against Prees on May 29 will also ‘double’ as the Simon Lines Trophy an annual match between the clubs.”

Meanwhile, on Thursday, May 16 Coton will entertain Iscoyd & Fenns Bank CC in first round of the Junior Slam.

Home and away Sunday friendlies/development games have been arranged against Fenns Bank CC and Audlem CC and Coton play East African Wanderers on Friday, August 2.

The club’s junior coaching and fun cricket activities start again on Monday, May 13 from 6-7.30pm.

n Each session costs £2 and are run throughout the summer.