A new course for cricket umpires will start in January at Cresselly Cricket Club organised by the very active Pembrokeshire Association of Cricket Umpires and Scorers.

Pembrokeshire cricket administrators are keen to get more cricketers umpiring in league and cup matches and the course is open to anyone with an interest in local cricket or cricket generally, whether or not they are current or former players.

The course tutor will be County Club chairman Trefor Evans, of Whitland, who is also the training officer for the Pembrokeshire Association of Cricket Umpires and Scorers.

Commenting on the course, Mr. Evans said: "With the days lengthening, cricketers of all description start looking forward to the new season. We are well served by cricket umpires in Pembrokeshire, with neutral umpires in both Divisions One and Two as well as in every round of each cup competition.

"However, there is still plenty of room for more, including current players who can officiate in cup competitions most weeks through the season and can also stand in league games when recovering from injury.

"Cricket is one of those games where supporters who have not played cricket can qualify as umpires.

"A shining example is our current association chairman, Richard Merriman, who has gained the respect of players throughout the county through his ability and understanding of the game. Apart from umpiring regularly in First Division matches and in the cauldron atmosphere in Pembrokeshire cup finals, he has also umpired in a Welsh Cup final between Cardiff and Swansea at the Swalec Stadium when he stood with Tony Scourfield, of Carew."

The course starts on Tuesday, January 11, at Cresselly Cricket Club, and will commence at 7 pm. Anyone interested in attending or requiring more information about the course content and duration can contact Trefor Evans on (01994) 240516.