WINTER training courses are being organised for people interested in becoming cricket umpires in Kent.

The courses are run by local associations affiliated to the national Association of Cricket Umpires and Scorers, which sets and marks the exams that are now mandatory for all new English umpires wishing to stand in the professional game, including Test matches.

Association official Tony Bastable said: "A shortage of properly qualified umpires and scorers has been a feature of the game for many years.

"Anyone interested in keeping the game going will find a warm welcome on an ACU&S course. It's hard work, but very enjoyable for anyone who loves cricket and wants to put something back into the game."

The contacts for courses in Kent are:

East Kent: John Marsh, 01227 765358; marshj36@hotmail.com

Maidstone and District: Brian Fridd, 01622 751554; brianfridd@tiscali.co.uk

Metropolitan Kent: Ron Nash, 01689 829872; ronnash@ntlworld.com

Sevenoaks: John Allen, 01959 522202; johnandjeanallen@yahoo.co.uk

Swale and District: Roy Buttenshaw, 01795 876377.

Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells: Andrew Etherington, 01883 716419; andrew.etherington@btinternet.com