OFFICIALS of the Cricket Federation for People with Disabilities were delighted with the response to their inter-regional match between the Midlands and Mid-Wales at Luctonians' Mortimer Park on Sunday.

Chairman Dick Wildgoose who, with the help of his twin brother Fred, started cricket for the disabled some 11 years ago, said: "There was great interest and we were able to make contact with a lot of local disabled groups and individuals.

"Those who turned up were amazed at what could be achieved and, after the representative matches for both men and ladies, we ran short matches for both groups to include all those who wanted to try cricket.

"The welcome from the club was excellent and we will certainly be taking up their offer to return next year."

In the men's match Mid-Wales won by six wickets after bowling out the Midlands for 77 in 21 overs. Sam Scott (Shrewsbury) was the top scorer with 20, and he received useful support with nine apiece from Tom Shackel (Oswestry) and Ian Cameron (Bridgnorth). Tony Gatherco, Stedman Woolmough and Andrew Kelly each claimed a brace of wickets.

Mid-Wales raced to their target in 13 overs. Peter Scrivens (Bridgnorth) was top scorer with 28, and he was backed up with a quick-fire 26 from Cliff Boucher (Brecon) and 16 from Ian Lea (Wrexham).

The ladies' match saw the Shropshire Stars post 69-3 off their allotted 15 overs, with Jenny Leach (27 not out) and Claire Beck (10 not out) sharing an unbroken fourth-wicket stand of 29 after a solid start from Elaine Dodd (23).

In response the British Belles found runs difficult to come by and could only muster 32-3, with Regan Parrish posting the top score of seven.