THE David Shepherd Cricket Trust’s helmet and balls offer was so successful last year it is being repeated ahead of the new season.

The Trust, which supports youth coaching and cricket development in Devon, offered clubs three adjustable helmets and a box of six youth-weight cricket balls for £50.

More than 30 clubs with youth sections took advantage of the scheme last year – and the list of recipients is a real cross-section of Devon cricket.

Premier clubs such as Sidmouth, Torquay, Exeter and Exmouth got their applications in, as did village clubs including Sidbury, Newton Tracey, South Brent and Clyst St George.

The offer proved so popular with clubs the Trust is running it again.

The offer proved so popular with clubs the Trust is running it again. Ninety-nine helmets have been ordered along with 33 boxes of balls.

For a one-off payment of £50 clubs can apply for a package containing three helmets – one red, one blue and one green – and a box of six balls.

All the helmets come embossed with DSCT – David Shepherd Cricket Trust – stitched on to them.

Stuart Munday, one of the trustees, said he expected a brisk demand for the helmets.

“They all went very quickly last year, which is why we have decided to run the offer again,” said Munday.

“If anyone is interested I would suggest they get their application in quick.”

Matt Theedom, the cricket development manager for Devon,said the helmet and balls offer was a huge help to clubs with youth sections.

“I think it is a very practical way for the David Shepherd Cricket Trust to help clubs and shows how in touch they are with the cricket community,” said Theedom.

“The offer is fantastic value for money when you look at the cost of helmets, never mind match balls.

“I would urge any club with a youth section to get their application in now.”

Applications should be made to Trust treasurer Gavin Lane by email to Gavin@gbdlane.freeserve.co.uk

“It is important applicant clubs provide a contact person to whom we can give payment details if the intend paying by bank transfer,” said Lane.

Alternatively, cheques made payable to the DSCT can be posted to Lane at 43 Furzehatt Road, Plymstock, Plymouth, Devon PL9 8QX.

The latest offer is part of the David Shepherd Cricket Trust’s annual £20,000 investment in youth cricket.

Grants are available for other purposes, such as coach education and specialist coaching sessions.

To find out more about the Trust and its work, visit www.dsct111.org.uk.

To become a member, or make a donation, follow the drop-down menu marked joining and donating.