A BORN and bred Ottregian has appealed to the town s residents in his bid to help Afghans play cricket on a Greek island.

A BORN and bred Ottregian has appealed to the town's residents in his bid to help Afghans play cricket on a Greek island.

Photographer Jon Ryan, 51, is on the lookout for unwanted cricket equipment he can take with him to Symi on July 1 after a group of young construction workers from Afghanistan came into focus while he was holidaying on the island last year.

"Anything would be better than the bats sawn from planks and tennis balls wrapped in tape they are having to use," said John, a former student at the King's School who played Cricket for Ottery in his youth.

He added: "You will be amazed and dismayed to learn that the local Greek shops carry little in the way of cricket equipment.

"Bats, pads and balls in particular are needed, I'm told. Having seen some what they play on, I'd want a box too! They are looking for adult size stuff, but anything would be welcome."

"I'll be going to Symi at the end of this month and would be able to take any contributions."

To help in Jon's bid contact the Herald on (01392) 888501.