Somerset are in the process of appointing a pitch adviser, who will go around the clubs in the county and offer advice.

Earlier today I spoke to Somerset Cricket Development Officer Andrew Moulding who told me: "This is a part-time appointment, and we hope that the person appointed will be in place by the end of March in time for the start of the new season.

"Cricket clubs in the county will be able to contact the new pitch adviser through the Centre of Excellence in Taunton. There will be a tariff of charges for the adviser's services, but the prices haven't been fixed yet.

"This is a huge step forward in helping the affiliated clubs and schools to develop safer and better cricket pitches."

Mr Moulding also outlined a course that is being run in conjunction with the Institute of Groundsmanship at Weston-super-Mare Cricket Club on Saturday March 23rd, entitled "Spring preparation and Summer Maintenance."

Further details of the groundsman's course can be obtained by contacting Andrew Moulding the the Centre of Excellence on 01823 352266.

© SOMERSET