WORCESTER has become the main focal point for a new charity designed to encourage youngsters to get involved with sporting activities, especially cricket.

It is currently being formed and once charitable status has been obtained will be called The British and Commonwealth Cricket Charitable Trust.

Peter Jewell, chairman and founder of the Trust, said: "John Major has agreed to become the President of this Trust, which has resulted from his deep interest in the sport and his patronage last year of Friends of Worcester Cricket.

"Friends of Worcester Cricket were successful in raising funds to make good the devastating flood damage sustained at the New Road ground and I felt it would be worthwhile to form this Charitable Trust for the benefit of young sportsmen and women in the area.

"Neal Radford has also endorsed this Trust by agreeing to become a Trustee."

One of its aims will be to provide a young under-privileged male or female cricketer, who has natural talent, with a full education and at the same time further their sporting abilities.

Peter Luff, MP for Mid-Worcestershire and a member of Worcestershire CCC, said "Peter Jewell is not only dedicating himself to sport and young people but has a keen interest in helping the people of the City of Worcester and County of Worcestershire."