AN England cricket star spent the day with pupils at Sedgemoor Manor Junior School honing their batting and bowling skills.

Caroline Atkins, a member of the World Cup and Twenty20 winning England ladies team, worked with children in years five and six on the basic skills involved in the game.

The visit was part of the school’s Chance to Shine project, aimed at increasing participation and interest in cricket, particularly among girls.

Caroline put on a series of fast-paced and stimulating sessions leaving the youngsters bowled over.

Jim Gillard, school sports co-ordinator, said: “Some of the children visited Taunton in the summer to watch England play and a couple even remembered receiving her autograph during that day.

“We are hoping that Caroline will stay in touch to see how some of the children, particularly some of the girls, have got on in the summer.”