The Southampton Evening cricket League and Hampshire County Cricket Club have announced the dates for the first Southampton Evening Cricket Trophyman Youth Festival.

It will take place on August 23 at The Rose Bowl at West End and will involve boys and girls under 11 at school during this year. It is hoped the teams will come from existing member clubs of the Southampton Evening Cricket League. But Southampton youngsters, if interested, can contact the league secretary who will put individuals in touch with their nearest clubs.

No cricket experience is required as there will be coaching sessions leading up to the festival to give teams and individuals tuition on the rules. Teams need at least eight players but if there are more, players can be rotated on and off.

Hampshire Cricket Club will supply all the equipment, and refreshments will be laid on for the children while parents will be very welcome to come along and watch.

There will be prizes and trophies for the finalists and a chance for many of the teams to play before and at the breaks of a full county game at the stadium.

League chairman Doug Perry said: "This is an exciting development for Southampton youngsters to get involved in playing cricket with local clubs. We are hoping it will raise the profile of cricket in the city."

Further information from Jim Costick on 023 8078 9575.