A STALWART of the region's cricket scene has produced a book charting the history of the oldest club in the midlands.

David Thomas has been working for the last two years collating records and memories from Enville Cricket Club which is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year.

Mr Thomas, who has been club secretary since 1966, has published a book to mark the momentous milestone.

To accompany the publication of the book, called, 200 Years of Cricket at Enville, Mr Thomas is hosting an exhibition of club memorabilia at Enville Hall, the club's home ground.

Mr Thomas said: "On display is the original letter from John Beckett, the Estate Agent outlining proposals of the Parish celebrations for the coronation of George 1V on July 19th, 1821. The letter referred to the Furlough where Lord Grey played cricket as being suitable to hold the event. The ground where the event was held is the cricket ground of today.

"In the 1850s England teams played annually and with the pick of the country and 22 players his Lordship never lost a 3-day match. These were gala occasions with entertainment and the grounds opened up for the public to view.

"In 1870, Doctor W G Grace played in a 3-day match to raise funds for the church."

Enville currently has three teams in the Worcestershire County League, a Sunday team, women's team and a thriving junior section.

A club spokesperson said: "This book and the exhibition is a fantastic record of Enville's long history but the important work is just beginning.

"That is to ensure the club continues to grow and thrive for another 200 years."

The exhibition will be open from 2.30pm to 6pm at Enville Hall, Hall Drive, on Saturday August 14,21 and 28, and Sunday August 15 and 22.