A TRAFFORD cricket team has been given a financial boost to help it with its running costs

The Old Trafford Cricket Club, which was established in 1976, has been given a £3,400 grant to enable it to fund additional ground and playing equipment, training venues and administrative costs..

The funding was given by Trafford Housing Trust’s community panel to the squad, which is made up of local youngsters who form a Saturday youth and community team. The team is playing regularly in the all-age Greater Manchester Amateur League..

The 14-24 year-olds benefit from weekly training which has helped the team to a respectable mid-table league position, at the home ground at St Bride's field.

The youth and community cricket team's Saturday captain Ikran Nagee said: "Thanks to the community panel and the youth involvement officer we are now playing competitive cricket and enjoy proper facilities in Old Trafford, whereas before we have had to play elsewhere."

Club chairman Salim Nagdee said: “The youngsters have brought some new blood to the club which and is now moving in the right direct with the development of future sessions for U14 and 16 age groups.”

Elaine Johnson, managing director of localities at Trafford Housing Trust added, “THT is proud that the Old Trafford community panel decided to make a difference to the lives of young people.

“Sport in local communities is a positive way to develop life skills, employment and volunteering opportunities. And who knows, it might also provide us with a future international sporting star."