A new director is hoping to take Shenley Cricket Centre into a new era of breaking-even while producing the sports stars of the future.

Mark Stear plans to improve the finances of the centre, which has been running at a loss, while at the same time introducing cricket coaching for colts, six to 17-year-olds.

Mr Stear, director of cricket, has submitted a planning application, to Hertsmere Borough Council, for a four-lane indoor cricket school, with a fitness suite, to be built.

He said the fitness suite would help fund running costs, as well as provide a gym for people in Shenley, and local schools and groups would also benefit from the cricket school.

He said of the colts: "The idea is that they will hopefully go through their years here and move into playing for Hertfordshire, and minor counties, and possibly the likes of Middlesex and then who knows."

As well as three youth training sessions each week, Mr Stear has also set up coaching, in July and August, with ex-England and Sri Lankan players.

Planning officer Chris Lewcock said the council was waiting for the centre to give it more detailed information on why the school was needed before it could decide the application. The centre is in the Green Belt and Shenley Conservation Area.

Shenley borough councillor Councillor Bill Hogan said: "We have got to support the cricket centre. It is a beautiful place and it would be nice to see it kept alive."

Mr Stear and his wife Teresa, who took over in November last year from ex-England player Eric Russell, who retired, have also started holding weddings and christenings at the centre, and are appealing for sponsors to help with the youth coaching. For information call 01923 859022.

* See further details on the centre's social and sport activities in What's On page 19.