KEEN young cricketers will be bowled over with the practice nets unveiled at a leading club ground.

Aspiring bowlers and batsmen, plus would-be wicket-keepers, are now able to take advantge of the modern practice facilities at Durham City Cricket Club.

Following the Durham county side's maiden senior success at last weekend's Friends Provident Trophy final against Hampshire, at Lord's, the next generation of Collingwoods, Harmisons and Mustards can pick up the rudiments of the game in the four-bay synthetic practice area.

It was opened by Don Robson, chairman of Durham Cricket Board and an honorary member of the city club, at its Green Lane ground.

Mr Robson, the former county council leader, led Durham into the first-class game as county club chairman in the early Nineties.

His first engagement on his return from the weekend celebrations at Lord's was to launch the facilities, which include non-turf practice wickets with fully enclosed net areas and security fencing.

Mr Robson said: "This facility can be used by all members, but will be especially beneficial to the younger players, helping them to learn and develop their game in a safe environment.

"It should encourage more young players into the game itself.

"Who knows? One of the club's young players could go on to play for Durham County, or even England, in future. That's our dream."

Club chairman David Allan thanked all those who contributed towards the nets, which were funded by a grant of more than £60,000 from Sport England's Community Club Development Programme, with contributions from Durham City Council.