In two weeks’ time the new cricket season kicks off at Sidmouth when Devon entertain Somerset 2nd XI at The Fortfield on Easter Sunday, writes Mike Dibble.

Prior to that the membership will be busy this Saturday when it is Nat West Cricket Force Day. ground chairman John Goodwin and house chairman John Palmer have a number of tasks for volunteers to complete. Members are asked to bring a paint brush. The morning kicks off with refreshments served at 9.30am.

The club are delighted to announce new main shirt sponsors with Brewin Dolphin agreeing an initial two-year deal. The other shirt sponsors are Everys Solicitors, Otter Brewery and St Johns School who will once again sponsor the Colts’ shirts. The support of all these businesses is greatly appreciated.

On the playing front, the club are delighted to announce that Sam Anderson from New Zealand will be their overseas player this year. Sam is a 23 year old all rounder. In addition to Sam, the club have also signed Liam Lewis and Peter Randerson from Heathcoat. Both players are in the Devon Lions Development Squad. Also back on the books will be Adam Dibble although his availability will depend on his commitments with Somerset CCC.

If you walk or drive by the Fort field on a summer's evening you may see a 'Pub League' game taking place. These fixtures have been taking place for a number of years and give local, part-time cricketers the opportunity to play at Sidmouth on superb wickets prepared by head groundsman Colin Whitehall. The tournament is run by bar manager Terry Riding and deserves support from local players. The club is very keen to see supporters numbers increase and social membership is available at �20 per annum. There is no finer way to spend an afternoon in the sun than at the Fort field with a drink from the bar which is open on match days.

On Friday, April 13, the club have their Colts’ Registration Night.

Colts’ training continues every Friday evening through the Summer ending in late July. The club have a number of teams in the Bradleys East Devon Youth League.

Sidmouth Cricket Club will be delighted to hear from anyone wishing to play cricket for Sidmouth at any level.

There are three Saturday XIs as well as a large number of Sunday and midweek fixtures. Indoor nets have started and it is hoped to be in the outside nets on April 1. If you are interested in playing for the club please contact Mike Dibble on 07770 798250. Training takes place on Wednesday evenings starting from 6pm with club coach Matt Cooke in attendance.