Philadelphia cricket club was packed when Durham County captain Jon Lewis presented the awards to Academy players.

Lewis said he was delighted to see so many parents and youngsters present and he thought the future of the club was in good shape.

Also present was Mr Bob Jackson, Chairman of Durham County who paid tribute to the club for becoming the first in the area to achieve Academy status.

Phili Chairman Mr Malcolm Pratt said that some clubs invested only in their first team but the policy at Bunker Hill is to encourage young players and improve facilities.

"We have had Martin Speight and Gordon Muchall coaching the Academy during the winter and have engaged Ricky Darwin, who will be looking after the juniors for at least two seasons. He is highly regarded as a coach and I feel that the club and young players can only benefit from his involvement," said Pratt.

Phili ran five junior teams last season, including two at under-13 level. Any youngster who would like to join the club and be coached is invited to contact Academy Chairman Tony Clark on 078 679 07 996.

Every player who was involved last season was presented with an award and in addition the following presentations were also made:

Under-11s: Batting: Ben Raine; Bowling: Matthew Haswell; Most Improved Player: Johnny Haswell.

Under-13 As: Batting: Thomas Raine; Bowling: Kieron Waterson; Most Improved Player: Sam Jackson.

Under-13 Bs: Batting: Mark Wilson; Bowling: Michael Clark; Most Improved Player: Lee Henderson.

Under-15s: Batting: Luke Anderson; Bowling: Greg Dixon; Most Improved Player: Ross Galley.

Under-18s: Batting: Berwick Hall; Bowling: William Orchin; Most Improved Player: Berwick Hall.