CRICKETERS from the past could help a former Worcestershire family trace their ancestors.

Bob Coleman, who now lives in West Sussex, says his wife's great-grandfather was John Smith, who played for Worcestershire between 1884 and 1889.

Mr Smith's son, Douglas James Smith, emigrated to South Africa and has been described as "one of the founders of South African cricket".

Another son, Tom, owned Worcester's Golden Lion Hotel between 1890 and 1923, and Mr Coleman said many of the city's "great and good" attended his funeral.

Mr Coleman and his wife Marion are keen to trace any family who may still be in Worcester.

They can be contacted on 01403 790594 or by

e-mail at bob.coleman1@

virgin.net