SATURDAY saw the official opening of the all new Writtle Cricket Centre.

Former Essex and England captain Nasser Hussain was at Skeggs Farm on Chelmsford Road to do the honours, and spoke to the assembled throng of representatives from local cricket clubs before having a bat against some High Roding CC colts.

Hussain wished the new venture every success and added that new indoor facilities were desperately needed in the area.

''We hope this new facility is going to make a real difference to the youths and club cricketers of mid-Essex'' said WCC manager Frank Thorogood.

''The county ground is a great cricket centre but the demands of the professional and representative players mean that club players and aspiring youngsters can struggle to find a practice slot.''

The new centre boasts a bowling machine and coaching software, as well as specialist cricket flooring and lighting.

Writtle Cricket Centre currently has spaces for colts one to one coaching in the after school hours (4-7pm) and weekend daytimes, and some availability for club nets during the week.

For bookings or information, call Frank Thorogood on 07970 150277.