FOR the first time, bookmakers are taking bets on a game between the borough’s two biggest cricket rivals.

Ladbrokes branches in Yorkshire Street and Parker Lane have opened a book on Sunday’s Worsley Cup semi-final between Lowerhouse CC and Burnley CC at Turf Moor.

And Lowerhouse fans have even released an album of songs on iTunes honouring past players, as excitement for the tie reaches fever pitch.

The bookies have been unable to split the rivals, with both sides priced at 10/11 for a win, with a draw at 14/1.

Steven Carden, marketplace manager for Ladbrokes in Burnley, said: “Fran Ward from our Parker Lane shop was approached by a few customers and we thought we’d get involved to help raise the profile of the game.

“It’s been really well-received and there appears to be a real interest in the match. We’ve taken quite a few bets already.”

The teams have met in 22 previous Worsley Cup ties, with 11 wins apiece, although they have never met at the semi-final stage before.

Some ’House supporters are expected to make the three-mile trip to Turf Moor via two barges along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

Mark Whitehead, who helped produce the five-track album entitled The Sensibles, said: “There’s a few songs and interviews on there I recorded in 1999 and a few I’ve just done this week.

“It’s all tongue-in-cheek and light-hearted with funny stories from the past. Hopefully a few people buy it to raise money for the club.”

Bets will also be taken on how many runs each side will score, with maximum stakes of £20.

The match has been described as one of the biggest in recent history between two Lancashire League sides, with a crowd of more than 2,000 expected to attend if the weather is good.

Burnley CC has struck a deal with Burnley FC to secure extra parking for supporters in Harry Potts Way.

Entry will be £4 for adults and £2 for concessions.

Only alcohol purchased at the ground will be allowed to be consumed at the ground.