As the cricket season moves steadily on so does the fortunes of Barnard Castle Junior Cricket Club.

Their teams this season are winning as many games as they are losing but are a young club and are a forward-thinking club.

So far this season they have had three players involved with the county club, while they also have a girl player who is matching the boys at not only bowling and batting but also keeping wicket, which is something the club is very proud of.

Sunday, June 29 is Barnard Castle Junior Cricket Club's Gala day when, say officials, they will have fun for all.

Thursday, July 3 sees the club host the school KWIK Cricket competition along with Durham Cricket Club, all schools in the area have been invited.

Officials are still working at bringing to the club leading players who are playing in the northern leagues. These, organisers hope, will assist their present coaches which in turn will improve their own player's standard.

Behind the scenes they say they are working very hard through Durham Cricket Board and Club Mark to apply for granting toward an improvement in off-pitch playing surfaces, nets, and indoor facilities. All this takes time and effort so the committee is working very hard for the future.

Secretary, Tony Thompson would like to say how very grateful he and the club are for the help given by parents, please keep up the good work.

Chester-le-Street

The Under-13s travelled to Hetton Lyons for a Durham senior League fixture on Saturday. Batting first Chester scored a healthy 170 for five with major contributions coming from Northern Echo Cricketer of the Month, Anthony McMahon 37 not out, Andrew Baynham 30 and Jonathan taylor 22. Ryan Pringle took two for 25 from his four overs.

In reply Hetton were limited to 74 with Pringle and Owen Gwynne both scoring 19. Chris Hesselwood was the pick of the Chester bowlers with three for three from three overs.