YOUNG cricketers are to be invited to meet England's Test players when they visit Yorkshire later in the year.

The county's cricket development officer has extended an invitation through the Keighley Cricket Academy after a successful season of coaching sessions throughout the winter. Over 30 youths took part and were presented with trophies to mark the completion of the course.

"It has been our most successful year. We have introduced a lot of young people to the game, held a successful schools tournament and entertained international touring teams from India and Dubai," secretary Charlie Bhowmick told the Academy's annual meeting.

A further tournament is to be held this summer with young cricketers playing at Keighley Cricket Club.

The Academy, which has close links with the Yorkshire Cricket Association, is also planning to develop closer links with clubs throughout the area.

"We hope to provide training so that every club has at least one qualified coach to encourage young people to take up the game of cricket," Mr Bhowmick said.

"It is our aim to give help and encouragement to any young people in the Keighley district interested in cricket. We want them to learn the game in a fun and safe environment and aim to develop some First class cricketers of the future."

Mr Terry Melia retired after 12 years as chairman and Mr Abid Hussain was elected new chairman. Other officials are: Sarfraz Qureshi (vice-chairman), Charlie Bhowmick (secretary), Sarwar Kamal (treasurer), Shaw Pall Rehman (manager).

Any young people who want to join the training programme or join the Academy should contact Sarfraz Qureshi on 01535-603056.