DESPITE one of the the wettest winters on record, Nawton Grange Juniors have had plenty to celebrate as the dawn breaks on the new summer cricket season.

Their junior section now boasts over 70 members, alongside an All Stars programme that regularly attracts 20 budding cricketers, who then feed into the club’s Under 9s.

Over the winter, the Ryedale club have won both the Under 13 and Under 10 indoor cricket competitions, and a remarkable number of juniors have made selections for representative teams for this summer.

The club has provided 15 players for the Derwent Valley Junior League representative teams, 10 players representing North Yorkshire in the regional programme and one boy was selected to attend County Age Group coaching at Headingley this winter.

That huge percentage is testament to the club’s Under 11 and Under 13 sides winning all the league and cup competitions in the local league in 2023.

Head coach George Bentley said of their recent successes: “Heading into my tenth year as head coach, it has been brilliant to see the transformation of Nawton Grange’s junior section.

“We have grown from the smallest of village clubs struggling to raise a team into a powerhouse to rival many town clubs.

“I am excited to see lots of these players continuing to progress and play in the first and second teams, as well their representative cricket teams.”

John Green of the World Cup Legacy charity added: “The work of the coaches is phenomenal.

“To have so many players regularly playing at Nawton is brilliant, and now they have a fantastic product for young people.

“ I see a bright future for all at Nawton Grange.”

Due to the increase in numbers and demands, the club have now entered the York Junior League to accommodate opportunities for all.

This new adventure has been supported fully by parents and player and new sponsors, which has allowed the club to invest in new coloured clothing for training and matches.

To find out more, contact head coach George Bentley or secretary Darren Smith via the club website.