THE chairman of the Kent-based Lashings Cricket Club, David Folb, has revealed he is once again fighting stomach cancer.

Mr Folb successfully came through a battle with the disease early in 2006, but the illness has since returned.

"In my heart of hearts I knew it had come back," Mr Folb admitted.

Just a fortnight ago Mr Folb announced that the Lashings side he built up from a village team would be touring Jamaica and playing a series of one-day games against the West Indian nation.

Mr Folb, who will have surgery later this week, says the tour will go ahead, with other members of the Lashings organisation overseeing the day-to-day running of the cricket operation, while he fights his disease.

Mr Folb also vowed that the cricket club would continue: "As people that know me will confirm, I like a good fight. I am taking a forced six months off work now."

"Over the last two years I have fought this horrible disease and I am determined to survive but have a hell of a battle on my hands again. I am so lucky to have great friends and family around me that make the fight easier.

"Lashings will continue. I have a fantastic support staff and I am sure that they will keep things goings in my absence".