WEYMOUTH Cricket Club have been handed a massive sponsorship boost ahead of the forthcoming season thanks to JD Wetherspoon.

The high street pub chain has agreed a deal with the Seasiders worth around £2,500 and first-team captain Dave Trotter is overjoyed.

He said: “We have been trying to get a main sponsor for some time so to agree a deal with JD Wetherspoon worth around £2,500 is absolutely fantastic.

“We have also struck deals with MKK, who will be supplying our shirts, Dean Batchelor, who will be sponsoring the cricket balls, and Skanska, who will be sponsoring the youth section.

“With things still going well at Portland Spa, and the Sailors Return sponsoring our social shirts and Weymouth Tandoori sponsoring our training tops as well, we could not be happier.

“Things are shaping up well ahead of what we hope will be a very good season for all our teams.”

When asked for an update on the playing side, Trotter added: “I think we are going to shock a few people.

“We have brought in a couple of new players and we have also had a few return to the club so there has been some very encouraging signs.

“We have held regular training sessions at Weymouth College and the Osprey Leisure Centre on Portland and there is no doubt that the standard of play has improved, particularly with the added competition for places.”

Trotter has singled out bowler Dan Hutchens as one to watch this season. He said: “Dan is very talented and I think this could be a good year for him.

“He lost interest a couple of years ago but he has been turning up to training and I feel he is a very good prospect, not just for the club but for the county as well. And with spinners such as Jack Croker coming through as well the standard has been remarkable.”

To find out more about Weymouth CC call Trotter on 07921507074.