PERSHORE Cricket Club's youth policy in developing local talent was evident when 14-year-old Joseph Taylor scored his maiden century in a senior game for Pershore thirds against Worcester Nomads.

The teenager, who has been coached at the club since he was nine, has played representative cricket for Worcestershire for the past four years and he played a major part in his side's winning draw by hitting 103 in a total of 245-8.

On his 14th birthday he produced a match winning performance playing for the thirds against Avoncroft. He carried his bat hitting 81 not out in a winning total of 221-5.

For much of the season, Joe has been partnered by his father, Phil, a cricket and hockey player for Pershore for many years.

The youngster's ambition is to secure a place in the club's second team next season.