KENT County Cricket Club's Appeal 2005 was given a superb start with a launch lunch at the Ramada Hotel and Resort at Hollingbourne, near Maidstone.

The event, aimed at boosting the coffers for Kent youth cricket and the county's player benevolent fund, attracted almost 150 Kent supporters and backers to wine and dine with Kent players past and present, including John Shepherd, Derek Underwood, Mike Denness, Bob Wilson, Derek Ufton, skipper David Fulton and Martin Saggers.

There were speeches from comedian and master of ceremonies Roger Dakin, England selector Geoff Miller and author and raconteur Bob 'The Cat' Bevan, plus an auction of sporting memorabilia and promises that raised over £4,000.

The next appeal 2005 event will be a golf day for teams of four at Rochester and Cobham Golf Club on Tuesday, May 10. For further details and to book places contact Carol Buck on 01795 422165.