THE Keighley Cricket Academy concluded its successful winter cricket coaching sessions at Carlton Keighley (UAK) last weekend.

These sessions were hugely popular and attended by youngsters from the age of six to 16.

They were run with the support of the England and Wales Cricket Board and Yorkshire Cricket Board and were funded with a grant from the Keighley Community Chest Fund.

A presentation was held during the last session, which was attended by former Keighley MP, John Grogan.

Keighley News: John Grogan was among those handing out medals to youngsters at the sessions.John Grogan was among those handing out medals to youngsters at the sessions. (Image: UGC.)

Councillor Mohsin Hussain was also there, and said: “It was an absolute pleasure to attend the Keighley Cricket Academy winter coaching sessions.

“They are doing a tremendous job of providing excellent coaching for youngsters.

“It’s important for parents to get their children into sport, which will ultimately benefit their fitness and help prevent child obesity.

“I am proud to be one of the students of KCA myself and it gave me the ability to reach Bradford Premier League Under-17 level, where I set bowling records.

“I encourage all youngsters to contact KCA and get involved.”

Keighley News: The kids practice a catching drill at the cricket sessions.The kids practice a catching drill at the cricket sessions. (Image: UGC.)

KCA Chairman, Sarwar Kamal, thanked all the coaching staff and parents for their support with the venture.

He said: “This has been a very successful coaching programme and we look forward to welcoming all participants back for future sessions.”

The KCA is currently organising a six-a-side indoor tournament in January, as well as further coaching sessions for youngsters.

Please contact Imran Kamal or Shah Pall on 07968 560431 for further information about the cricket coaching sessions.