Cricket fever has taken over schools and cricket clubs in mid Essex as youngsters were gripped by the Ashes.

As the England team celebrated its historic win with a parade in Trafalgar Square today, local people told how the final day of the Test captured the imagination of youngsters.

Alec Hunter Humanities College in Stubbs Lane, Braintree, posted half-hourly updates on reception boards to keep both pupils and staff up-to-date with the nail-biting fifth test.

Other headteachers said it was the topic of conversation in pupils' and teachers' lunch and break times.

Cricket clubs in the area said the England v Australia final had sparked renewed interest among young players and bosses hoped to see more people sign up at the beginning of next year's season.

Dave Lee-Allan, assistant headteacher at Notley High School in Notley Road, Braintree,said: "It's great to see pupils at break and lunch times talking to staff about the cricket."

Ted Wakelin, chairman of Witham Cricket Club in Maldon Road, said: "I've definitely noticed a difference when talking to people who haven't been interested in cricket.

"People have said they're not usually interested but couldn't pull themselves away from the TV during the Ashes.

"It's great for the youngsters and it has obviously had a big impact on them. Hopefully, we will see more youngsters in cricket shirts rather than football shirts."

Barry Mouser, Rayne Cricket Club's 2nd XI captain, said he has spotted more children playing cricket on the green off Gore Road during the Ashes.

Alan Coker, chairman of Maldon Cricket Club, believes the interest in the sport will be similar to that of rugby after England won the World Cup in 2003.

Maldon cricketing author Richard Cooper has been enjoying excellent sales of his book about 250 years of cricket in Maldon, which he released this summer to coincide with the anniversary.

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Published Tuesday, September 13, 2005

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