CRICKET has never been so much fun at West Burton School thanks to professional coach Umar Rashid.

He grew up in a cricket-mad family in Karachi and was a professional cricketer himself for many years both in Pakistan and England.

Now he coaches with Richmond Cricket Development, visiting 22 schools and four clubs under the auspices of Richmondshire District Council.

The children at West Burton have been thoroughly enjoying his weekly coaching sessions.

Mr Rashid said: "There is more enthusiasm for cricket now. They want to play cricket during their play time and not just football."

He has seen this at the other schools as well and said that there was a lot of talented youngsters in the district.

He also felt that the cross-cultural situation was valuable as the youngsters adjusted to his different accent and background.