CRICKET fans in the area have expressed their delight after it was confirmed that Sedbergh School will host the Lancashire v Durham County Championship clash this summer.

The historic four day game, which is understood to be the first ever first class game to take place in Cumbria, will take place from Sunday, June 30 to Wednesday, July 3.

And Sedbergh School head teacher Dan Harrison said he was honoured the school’s picturesque ground had been chosen to stage the prestigious game.

“From an infrastructure perspective, everything will be in place come June and we are looking forward to putting on a show, for the locals, Lancashire members and supporters, and travelling supporters from Durham,” he said.

“To be hosting Lancashire CCC is a real privilege for the whole school and it’s an opportunity that all our young cricketers, and head of cricket Martin Speight who used to play for Durham, will relish being involved in.

“We are delighted to work with Lancashire CCC who are keen to engage with Cumbria and its cricket.

“Our ground is a hidden gem and we can’t wait for more people to discover it.”

Netherfield CC secretary Ian Heath also welcomed the announcement.

“It’s great news for cricket fans in the region and it will be a big boost for cricket in the area,” he said. “I’m sure it will be well supported.”

And Barrow born Liam Livingstone, who was Lancashire skipper in 2018 before stepping down at the end of the campaign,  warmly welcomed the news.

"Personally I think this is a great idea, spread Lancashire CCC cricket throughout Cumbria as well as Lancashire, and Sedbergh is a great place to do that, fantastic ground and great facilities," he tweeted.

"I can’t wait to play first class cricket in Cumbria."

But Ian Lomax of independent fans’ body the Lancs Action Group said many Lancashire members were unhappy at the decision.

“There is no train service to Sedbergh and many older members do not drive so will have problems getting there from Lancashire,” he said.