Durham cricket stars knock South Tyneside kids for six

The youngsters got to meet up with Durham County Cricket Club players Brydon Carse and Jack Burnham when they took part in the Port of Tyne Kwik Cricket Festival at South Shields Cricket Club.

The event attracted a total of 25 teams from 10 different schools totalling - with 250 youngsters taking part in the Primary Year 6 festival, which was sponsored by Port of Tyne and held by Durham County Cricket Foundation and Durham Cricket Board.

After a glorious, competitive day - umpired by cricket activators from St Wilfrid’s Secondary School - East Boldon Junior School claimed first place, successfully defeating Mortimer Primary School in a hotly contested final match.

There was also a guest appearance by Burnham and Carse - who got involved in the action and presented the winning sides with medals.

Port of Tyne have been supporting the development of grassroots cricket in the South Shields area.

The firm ims to make the sport more accessible to local primary schools and supports leadership development opportunities in local secondary schools.

The Kwik Cricket festival was an opportunity for the pupils to put their cricketing skills to good use.

Steven Harrison, Port of Tyne chief operating officer, said: “The Port of Tyne is proud to support grass roots sport though our strong support of Durham County Cricket Club Foundation.

“The schools tournament is a great initiative and it was fantastic to see so many schools from South Tyneside participating.”

DCCC Foundation manager, Josie Pointon said: “The festival is a great way for young cricketers and pupils to participate improve their skills, keep active and enjoy the social aspect of being part of a fun filled day of cricket.

“It was great to see so many pupils enjoying themselves, playing some excellent cricket and contributing to a highly successful day.

“We are extremely grateful to Port of Tyne for supporting the development of sustainable grassroots cricket and leadership opportunities within South Shields.”

He added: “We want to see children being healthy and active and for cricket to be accessible to all and this festival proved to do exactly that.

“We hope to raise the aspirations of children and young people through cricket and I’m sure the opportunity to meet and play cricket with Brydon and Jack inspired a few budding cricketers!”

East Bolden will continue into junior finals to be played June 22 at Burnmoor Cricket Club for the Durham Kwik Cricket Mixed County Final next month.