PENISTONE and Stocksbridge MP Marie Tidball stopped off at a renowned cricket club.

Marie attended a friendly match between Higham Cricket Club and Yorkshire’s mixed disability development team, meeting players including Kian Patel, Alex Flynn, Owen Morris, Stanley Sleightholme and Alex Bradshaw.

The club is pioneering the work to support young people through their journey from grassroots cricket teams on to the England Lions Disability Cricket Team.

Of the 52 cricketers in the national team, eight of them train and play at Higham.

Dan Bamforth, chairman of Higham Cricket Club, said: “We believe in creating as many opportunities as we can for everyone to engage with cricket.

“It was inspiring to have Marie join us and witness the incredible talent and determination of the players on show.

“Our vision aims to broaden access and foster a community where everyone can thrive in the sport.

“Together, we can make a significant impact in promoting cricket for all across Yorkshire and beyond.”

Marie added: “I am so proud that they are leading the way across our county on increasing the number of young people playing disability cricket.

“In school, I was left having to referee netball and hockey matches for my non-disabled classmates.

‘There was no understanding that I might be able to join in too, as a disabled person.

‘That’s why inclusive sport - whether that’s at school, or out in the community - is so important to me.

‘I had a fantastic afternoon and look forward to working with Dan and others to raise the profile of disability cricket in our constituency and beyond.

“If you or your club locally are interested in getting involved, do reach out to the club.”