ATTEMPTS to set up a women's cricket team in York have been boosted by the number of players showing an interest.

A dozen women turned out for the first introductory training session on Thursday, and at least six more are likely to attend a similar session this Thursday, at York CC's Clifton Park (6.15 to 8pm).

About 16 applications have already been received regarding a girls' team, and even more are expected to turn up to a taster session for younger players, aged from 11-16, on Wednesday (6-8pm), also at Clifton Park

York has not had a women's team for 35 years, despite the recent upsurge in the number of women playing cricket nationwide and the fact that Yorkshire is the leading force in the female game.

These sessions have been organised by the York Cricket Coaches' Association and York CC, supported by the York and Scarborough Cricket Association, in a bid to lay the foundations for a new club, and will be led by Ian Dews, Yorkshire Cricket Board's development officer for North Yorkshire, assisted by coaches from the Yorkshire Women's Cricket Association.

Anyone wanting to help organise or manage a York team, or wanting further information, should call Chris Houseman (01904 610258) or Bob Paddison (01977 683288).