YORKSHIRE’S in-form opening batsman Adam Lyth was a guest of honour as Thirsk Cricket Club opened their new practice nets.

Lyth demonstrated his batting technique against the bowling machine in front of a large number of excited juniors before then carrying out a number of coaching sessions.

It had a positive effect on both parties as, soon after, Lyth struck 143 for Yorkshire against reigning county champions Durham at Headingley.

Costing more than £11,000, the new nets were mainly funded by a grant from the Landfill Communities Fund in partnership with Todd Waste Management from their Knapton landfill site.

George Gifford, Thirsk chairman, said: “We as a club are extremely grateful to Todd’s for financing the new nets, which will provide an excellent practice facility for all our members for a long time into the future.”

Thirsk runs three Saturday league teams as well as providing junior coaching and matches for more than 120 boys and girls aged five to 17.

For more information about the club, phone secretary Ken Major on 07887 365321.