Thirsk Cricket Club could be lording it at the world's most famous ground next year.

Following the visit to Thirsk by Roger Knight, chief executive of the MCC, to unveil a plaque to the founder of Lord's, Thomas Lord, who was born in Thirsk, the club is hoping his influence will bring off a fixture on the nursery ground at the London club.

Next year, the Thirsk club is planning to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Lord's birth. He retired to West Meon in Hampshire where he died in 1832. The club there has invited Thirsk to a match to mark the event.

Chairman of Thirsk CC, George Gifford said: "It was suggested that it would be extra special if we could stage the match at Lord's. Inquiries were made and are still ongoing but we hope we can be accommodated for the match.

"The main problem is finding a suitable date as the nursery ground is used for by the Cricket for the Blind Association in the week and both cricket clubs play league matches at the weekend. But when we mentioned it to Roger on his visit, he said he thought it was a splendid idea so we are hopeful that it will come off."

Club historian, Pat Ruecroft, whose grandfather was joiner when the old pavilion was built in 1907, said: "It would be wonderful for players and supporters and a memorable occasion."

Thirsk CC celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2001.

Great days ahead

THE finishing touches are being put to next week's 146th Great Yorkshire Show which takes place in Harrogate from Tuesday until Thursday.

A bumper crop of spectators and livestock are expected with advanced ticket sales already standing at 6,300, 60pc up on last year, and cattle, sheep, pig and goat entries higher than ever before.

More than 125,000 visitors are expected over the three days.

* See also page 16.