A TALENTED teenage cricketer from Newton Poppleford is well on his way to joining Devon’s Youth Cricket tour of South Africa, thanks to a donation from a Clinton Devon Estates charity.

Finlay Marks, 14, has been appealing for help to meet his £2,850 target to fund the cricket trip early next year.

The Sidmouth College student, who has played for the Under 15s Devon Youth Cricket team for the past four years and also plays for Exmouth Cricket Club, was invited to be part of the 14-strong team that will travel to South Africa in February.

His fundraising has so far included a magazine delivery round in Sidford and Colaton Raleigh, a cake sale, and a raffle at his cricket club.

Now he’s received a welcome boost with a cheque for £350 from Charles Fane Trefusis, a trustee of Lord Clinton’s Charitable Trust.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for me, not only to play first-class cricket and see how South African cricket differs from British cricket, but also to learn about South Africa, the culture and the townships,” said Finlay.

“As well as playing games, we’ll be visiting Table Top Mountain and going on safari in the Kruger Park, which I’m really looking forward to.”

Finlay still needs to raise another £1,000 for his trip.

“I’d appreciate any level of contribution, particularly from local businesses who may want to sponsor me in return for an acknowledgment or advert in our tour brochure.”