A TEENAGE cricketer from Darlington is to head to the Middle East with the county under-15 team.

James Dobson and members of the under-15s are to travel to the United Arab Emirates in December for an international cricket tournament in Dubai, Sharja and Abu Dhabi.

James, 14, a Hummersknott School pupil, represents both Darlington and Durham as a batsman and wicketkeeper.

This summer, at just 14 years and 124 days, James became possibly the youngest player to represent Darlington first XI in the North Yorkshire, South Durham Premier League.

Last season saw James take 71 victims as a wicketkeeper and score 1,600 runs in all matches at a season average of 41.50.

The full cost of the trip is subsidised for the players, but James will still have to pay about £500 and is looking for sponsorship. Anyone who can help is asked to call Penny Jennings or Stewart Souter, at Hummersknott School, on 01325-241191.