There are many Kent villages with stories to tell when it comes to cricket down the years - and Godmersham's links with one of history's literary giants makes it no exception.

Local author Ian Lambert's new book, Godmersham - A Cricketing History - 1774-2022 charts nearly 250 years of leather on willow in the parish, including an association with acclaimed writer Jane Austen.

As per its title, cricket in this small village between Ashford and Canterbury was first recorded in 1774 with matches between the Gentlemen of Wye, Godmersham and Chilham against the Gentlemen of Faversham, which allows Godmersham to claim its place as an early contributor to cricket in the county.

The various owners of the Godmersham Park Estate have been a major cricketing influence, including Edward Austen Knight, brother of Jane - a regular visitor to Godmersham. In 2013 an enactment of Victorian cricket was held to celebrate the publication of the first edition of one of her most famous works, Pride and Prejudice.

Four of Austen Knight's sons played first-class cricket, one of whom was George Knight, an influential MCC member and highly successful campaigner in changing the laws of cricket to allow round-arm bowling.

Near the main house is a field known as “Crickets” where it is believed the game was played in the early days. The local club played on the present recreation ground with mixed fortunes but stopped in 1964 due to a lack of numbers. Despite a short revival, it ceased in 1986.

However, like all good books, that particular chapter had a happy ending. The Sunley family, owners since 1983, initiated a new era with a new pitch on the mansion lawn where games have been played on a social basis. One annual fixture which was revived - and continues to this day - is a match between the Estate XI v the Vicar’s XI.

To purchase Ian's 50-page A5 book, which contains more than 50 photographs and illustrations of people and local scenes, contact godmershamheritage@gmail.com. The cost is £5 or £7 postage and packing, with Godmersham Park Heritage Centre benefitting from sales.

Godmersham Park (not the main house) is open to the public on Sunday, March 19 and Sunday, June 11 as part of the National Open Gardens Scheme. Check times and entry charge at godmershamheritage.webs.com/opening-times-events