St Laurence CE Primary School from Chorley and Orrell St James’ RC Primary School from Wigan have shared the Lancashire honours and became the joint County Winners for the ECB Girls Kwik Cricket Competition 2014.

Both schools will be representing Lancashire in the National Finals at Harrogate Cricket Club, Yorkshire next Wednesday.

A record number of 26 schools from all parts of the Lancashire, representing their districts, took part in the ECB Girls Kwik Cricket County Finals at Unsworth Cricket Club on Tuesday, June 24.

The weather was great until the final match. The rain spoiled what could have been a thrilling final. Both schools were happy to share the honours.

The standard of cricket on display was very high and reflects the progress has been made in raising the standard for the girls’ cricket in Lancashire through the Chance to Shine and other initiatives.

Women and Girls Cricket Development Officer, Jen Laycock commented: “The competition was of excellent standard with plenty of sixes and fours hit. “ More than 100 letters were handed out to the players inviting them to a talent day we are holding in July.

“In previous years we have picked up players to go through into County trials and we hope to do the same from the talent day.

“We were lucky to have Chance 2 Shine ambassador Kate Cross down, a Lancashire player who is leading the fast bowlers out for the women’s senior side this season.

“Kate spoke with many of the players and teachers, inspiring them to take the next step into the club environment.

“I hope that next year we continue to grow and we unearth some more hidden talents, inspire more girls to play the game and follow in Kate’s footsteps."”

Rudra Singh, LCB’s Education Manager added: “The 2014 ECB Girls Kwik Cricket Lancashire County Final day is the pinnacle for the thousands of girls who have already taken part in this competition this season through their district festivals.

“I would like to thank all teachers, schools games organisers, sports development officers, cricket development groups and local clubs that provide quality facilities at both local and county level.

“Also Unsworth Cricket Club for their continued support in providing an excellent environment for the Lancashire Girls Kwik Cricket County Finals.”