ONLY one official from the Kent Cricket Board attended the packed launch meeting of the Thanet District Cricket Partnership at the East Kent Sports Hall in Ramsgate at the weekend.

This was a major disappointment for many, especially the delegates of Broadstairs and Sandwich, who wanted answers to queries about applying for grants and funding.

But Jamie Clifford, the KCB’s director of cricket development, was apparently unable to attend due to a prior commitment.

Instead Peter Robinson, the board’s clubs’ committeee chairman, who travelled from the Tonbridge area to be present, was left to deal with questions outside his jurisdiction.

He said: “I believe this is the strongest district in the county and is reflected especially in the success of both youth cricket and the indoor league here. I am very impressed with the achievements and progressive attitude.”

Thanet chairman George Cocks said he planned to arrange another meeting at a date suitable for more KCB officers to attend.

He added: “I was delighted with the response and enthusiasm shown by our local clubs and organisations to the project which proved that cricket is very much alive in this district.”