WHEN Ian Botham clubbed the Aussies for 149 at Headingley in 1981, he was wielding a Duncan Fearnley bat, bearing the proud legend: Made in Worcester.

As the current crop of England hopefuls attempt to wrest cricket's greatest trophy from the Aussies' grasp once again, comes the sad news that the company is down to its last man.

Last month, Roger Weston, one of the firm's two expert craftsmen, was made redundant after 30 years with the city firm, following a dramatic drop in trade.

The company is still able to produce up to 60,000 bats a year - but these are mass produced models, manufactured overseas.

It is the 'quality' end of the market - which was based in Worcester - that has collapsed.

Is it the end of an era? Far from it, according to county legend and company founder Mr Fearnley.

"We will make about 1,500 to 2,000 a year and they will be the Rolls-Royce of cricket bats," he said.

All very well and good - but we can't help but feel Mr Fearnley is putting a positive spin on what would appear to be a fairly grim situation.

As any cricket captain will tell you, to be down to your last man is a pretty bleak position.

Of course, it makes sound financial sense for the company to have its bats produced overseas. Let's just hope a resurgent England team will see a reversal of fortunes for our county's cricket craftsmen.