GREAT Burstead were soundly beaten by the North Stars of St. Lucia, Barbados in a specially arranged cricket match.

The visitors batted first at Hannakins Farm in Billericay and hit 206.

In reply Great Burstead made just 112 but even that could not stop the home-side enjoying the day which was put together by Mike Long.

“It was just brilliant and I don’t think we’ve seen so many people watching a game of cricket over at Hannakins before,” said Long.

“It all went well and it’s something we’re going to look to do again in a couple of years.”

Long struck up a relationship with the tourists side while in Barbados last March with an Essex Police side.

That led to this match taking place and is another indication of the club’s improvement in recent seasons.

“We’re making good progress,” said Long.

“We have an overseas player now who has been great and more youngsters are becoming involved too. That’s brilliant because we want to get children off the streets and get them playing cricket.”Thanks to their progress, Great Burstead will be entering the Cockspur Cup, a national competition for village sides, again next season.

Long also thanked Hannakins Farm for staging the event and sponsors Jeff Gilkes who provided rum and rum punch!

He is also keen to hear from anyone, above the age of 12, who may be interested in playing cricket.

Contact Mike on 01277 623127 or 07702 292951 for more details.