With the 2003 membership campaign just underway Somerset County Cricket Club have already been inundated with applications to sign up for the new season.

Despite suffering relegation in both the County Championship and the National League during 2002 there seems to have been no reduction in the interest shown by Cidermen supporters.

On just one day earlier this week over one hundred and forty membership applications were processed by the office staff at the County Ground bringing in revenue in excess of £12,000 which all looks very promising for the coming season.

Membership secretary Jo Arnold told me: "We are absolutely delighted the way that the membership applications have come flooding in already and if this continues 2003 could be a record breaking year for members."

In order to cope with those wishing to buy memberships for Christmas presents the club office is open this this morning between 10.00am and 1.pm and will also be open on Saturday mornings throughout February.

Two other items that will make ideal Christmas presents are also available from the club office. The 2003 diary, which is an invaluable guide for all cricket followers is now available priced £7.50, whilst for Junior Sabres the new `Stumpy' mug is also on sale.

The mug, that features a cartoon of Somerset's friendly dragon mascot, has proved so popular that it looks likely that stocks could even run out!

© SOMERSET