The Warwickshire Cricket Board is delighted to announce that Listers Volkswagen and Sportsmatch are sponsoring the District Development scheme. The investment will be the largest direct intervention of monies in the Cricket Board's history.

The district scheme came from humble begins back in 1997 when it was first set-up. Five years later the programme has come into it's own with 6 development centres set-up in Coventry, Solihull, North Birmingham, South Birmingham, North and East Warwickshire and South and Central Warwickshire. Each district runs sides at Under 11, Under 13 and Under 15 age groups.

The cash boost has enabled a 2 year programme to go ahead which will see further district boys squads established together with a sizable investment in the Women's Cricket Programme in Birmingham, Solihull and Coventry with further part-time staff appointed to oversee the schemes.

Richard Cox, the Director of Cricket at Warwickshire said "This financial boost to Youth Cricket comes at a vital time in the development of the Cricket Board's activities and in particular the new District Cricket programme. It demonstrates the determination of all parties to see Warwickshire at the forefront of cricket at all levels"

Children can be nominated for a district trial via schools and local cricket clubs. All trialist not attached to a cricket club will be provided with the details of his local club, giving him an opportunity to further his cricket.

The district festival week begins on Monday 3 June and will involve all development centres and age groups. The festival will act as a trial for potential County A and B players for their respected age groups.

For further information on the above contact Richard Cox on 0121-446-3615, or email richardcox@thebears.co.uk

© Warwickshire Cricket Board