Katherine Chapman is keeping pace with her brother John in Consett's junior side, writes Malcolm Pratt.

Last week, she claimed four wickets for 32 runs with her medium-pace bowling to record her best figures so far.

Katherine plays in the Foster's Northumberland and Tyneside Junior League after having graduated from the Under-13s.

"My dad has played for Consett for a long time and from as early as I can remember, I went to Blackfyne with my mam, who made the teas. I have been brought up on cricket and love playing," said the 16-year- old who now attends college in Durham after leaving Moorside Comprehensive school.

"I first played in the U-13 team when I was just 11 and also turned out for the U-15s. Now, I am a regular in the U-18 junior side.

"It doesn't bother me that I am the only girl playing with ten lads. Sometimes I get a look when they see me appearing but more and more girls are playing the game and all I want to do is to enjoy myself," added Katherine.

Besides playing for Consett, Katherine is also involved with Shotley Bridge ladies and Durham County ladies.

"We are a cricketing family." said mum Lesley. "John, who captains the U-18 team, and Lesley have been brought up in the game."

"We all love cricket and her dad and I are delighted that Katherine is involved with this wonderful game," added Lesley.

"But we would be delighted if she was involved in any sport. We have encouraged both John and Katherine to be involved in team games and it is good for them to be competitive."

l Promising Lintz youngster Stephen Smith celebrated scoring his maiden century when he finished with 102 not out in the Foster's Northumberland Tyneside Senior League Cameron Shield match against Ryton last week.

Smith, now in his second season with Lintz after starting with his home village club Chopwell, had previously scored three half centuries.

"I opened the innings and was still there at the end. It was a real thrill to score a 100 and I hope there are more to come," said Stephen who attends Hookergate School, High Spen.

Stephen bats right-handed and is also a useful right arm bowler with his best performance five for nine while playing for Chopwell. He was a regular in the Durham County U-14 squad last season and has again been selected for this year's team.

Picture: MIKE URWIN