Chippenham Cricket Club have been running their junior cricket academy for the second year this winter.

The academy was successfully established last year with the aim of helping young, committed cricketers realise their full potential in the game.

Three groups of young players from ages nine to 19 have experienced an intensive winter coaching programme delivered by coaches including former England Test player Richard Illingworth and Gloucestershire's opening batsman Tim Hancock.

Said academy director Dale Bowler: "The Academy has enabled promising young players to experience the highest level of coaching."

"All the external coaches have been impressed with the players' commitment and development during the winter.

"News of the success of the academy is spreading and we are already getting requests from new players to join it next winter."

Chippenham's young cricketers have already won their first trophy of the year.

The under 14 team took part in the Salisbury & District Indoor League for the first time and won eight of their nine games to take the league title ahead of Andover and South Wilts.

Captain Tim Rowson was the second highest scorer in the league and Phil Adams was second in the bowling averages.

Chippenham also held their Youth Signing-On Evening last weekend and anyone still interested in joining should contact the club.