CRICKETERS will be taking to the crease for the first time in almost six years in Exford later this month following the reformation of a village team.

As reported, a group of keen villagers decided to relaunch Exford Cricket Club last year following a refurbishment of the pavilion.

And club members have been hard at work over the winter raising money and tending the grounds as they prepare for the new season.

The team will begin training in the nets at The West Somerset Community College in the next couple of weeks.

Player Nigel Adams said: “We have a full list of friendly games against local and touring sides on Sunday afternoons and Wednesday evenings, so if you fancy dusting off your cricketing whites come along and join in. All ages and abilities are welcome.

“And if you’d like to come and support the team please bring your family and picnic up to the ground – the views are wonderful, though we may not be able to guarantee our cricket is always the same!”

Cricket has been played in Exford on and off in its current location since the 1920s, the site originally being chosen as it was the only suitable level field in the village.

In those days the tenant farmer let the team play and games took place with cattle still grazing on the outfield. In 1931 the village raised £200 and bought the ground and it is still owned by the parish.

The current clubhouse and pavilion, built by villagers in the 1990s, is also home to the Exmoor Youth Project. The youth club funded the recent upgrades, which will include home and away changing facilities and showers.

The club will welcome Roadwater for the first match of the season on Sunday, May 16, at 2pm.

To find out more, call club captain Mark Warner on 01643-831302.