Sun shines for annual under-9s festival

Visiting sides from North Runcton and Snettisham joined hosts Grimston Cricket Club as they hosted their annual under-9s festival.The youngsters enjoyed fantastic weather and put on an impressive display of cricketing prowess.In their first game, Grimston CC captain Charlie Adkin won the toss and chose to bat first, opening alongside Jude Pringle, both playing well in the face of some superb bowling.Next in to bat were Tomos Owen and Finlay Patterson, who played some expansive shots for the loss of only one wicket.The final batting pair were Maisie Shepherdly and Noah Tuffs, who did well despite facing some of North Runcton’s best bowers. North Runton ran out winners after an excellent final over from Teddy Ring and his batting partner.The next match saw North Runcton beat Snettisham, securing the trophy and leaving the final game between Grimston and Snettisham a dead rubber.Despite both teams having little to play for, the game was played in terrific spirits with a close match seeing Snettisham narrowly winning. Snettisham were helped out by two of their young supporters, with Casper bowling beautifully in his first game. Player of the tournament was Grimston’s Oliver Chrysostomou, who went on loan to North Runcton for both of their fixtures, before returning to the Grimston side for their final match.Chairman Tim Tilbrook was delighted with the day, saying: “It’s been a huge success, the youngsters have had so much fun and played excellent cricket too. It’s great to see these local clubs serving their communities and growing the game.”Youth training at Grimston takes place on Wednesdays between 5pm and 6pm.