On Tuesday the club welcomed 96 students and their teachers from College Cathelineau for a morning of cricket. Fortunately, the weather was kind and the sun shone for the majority of morning on a fresh March day at Short Lane.

During their two-hour visit to Ashford, the 14/15-year olds received an introduction to batting, bowling, fielding and got to experience what it's like to run while wearing batting gear. The session concluded with the students trying out the skills they had met in games of quick cricket and tip n run.

Thanks to our member volunteers who gave up their time to act as hosts/coaches to our guests: Mick Tilt (lead organiser), Chris Evans, Alison McCreedy, Steven Smith, Keith Manning, Craig Turner and Jim Berressem. And thanks to Claire Turner for drafting a welcome letter for our guests in French.

Last year in April was first time the club hosted a tour group of a French school. Then it was just 56 students. The events aim to offer our French visitors an introduction to cricket as part of their tour of London and experiences of quintessentially English places and activities. But the visits also make a useful contribution to our club funds.

And we will be welcoming more French guests next month. A coach tour of students will arrive for similar events on the morning of Tuesday 2nd and Wednesday 3rd April. If you are free and can spare the time, we would welcome your help and support to host these events. If you want to get involved, please contact Mick Tilt or Jim Berressem (07890811254).