WOMEN across Worcester new to the sport of cricket recently took part in a special introductory soft ball festival.

The event, at David Lloyd Club, Sixways, on Sunday, July 16, hosted by Worcestershire Cricket, was the latest of five summer women’s soft ball festivals.

Eight teams of six women took part at the club, including a team of David Lloyd Worcester’s own female staff.

As part of English Cricket Board’s new women’s soft ball cricket, the festivals are aimed at women who have never played cricket before.

All abilities were welcomed and entry was free of charge.

Teams enjoyed a warm up and prosecco.

Tia Webb, of Worcestershire Cricket, said: "All the teams took part with huge enthusiasm- the festival was a big success.”

She added: "The facilities at David Lloyd were perfect for this as it offered us both indoor and outdoor playing areas, which was luck as we had a downpour for the first session before the sun came out. "

Participant Sindy Jones, member services manager at David Lloyd Worcester said: "The event was great fun. Clearly as a health and fitness club, we want to encourage as much participation as possible in sport, and these festivals are introducing women to a new sport. As a team we all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves."

To register a team (free of charge) for a forthcoming summer women’s soft ball festivals on August 13 at Worcestershire County Cricket Club or September 24 at Astwood Bank Cricket Club, contact Tia Webb on 07711 868902.

For more information call David Lloyd Worcester on 01905 459010.