YOUNG cricketers were bowled over when they received a donation from their local MP.

Durham North MP Kevan Jones recently visited Burnmoor Cricket Juniors Club, near Chester-le-Street, to hand over a £2,000 grant from his County Durham Community Foundation fund.

The money will pay for new kit and equipment, along with training from a qualified coach.

More than 20 youngsters will be able to attend each coaching session, which will be opened up to members of other local cricket clubs and pupils of nearby schools.

Mr Jones said: “It was a pleasure to visit Burnmoor Cricket Club and to meet with some of the young cricketers.

“It was great to find out more about the club’s plans, and to see just what a difference this grant will make to them.”

Established in the 1950s, the club has 40 members aged between eight and 18 years, with four teams training weekly from January through to the end of the playing season in September.

Kevin Cuthbert of Burnmoor Cricket Juniors Club said: “We are grateful to Kevan Jones and County Durham Community Foundation for the grant allowing us to purchase new equipment and provide summer activities for the children as it gives them something to look forward to and be a part of.’’