TEAMS from across the county descended on Taunton on Sunday morning, for the latest Somerset Cricket Board women’s softball festival.

Taunton, Taunton Deane, Taunton St Andrew’s, Staplegrove and Wiveliscombe were among the 15 teams taking part, alongside the likes of Bridgwater, Chard, Ilton and Wembdon.

All in all, there were a total of 139 women and girls playing matches on the outfield at the Cooper Associates County Ground.

Following some words and a light-hearted awards presentation from England and Western Storm captain Heather Knight, the teams enjoyed lunch in the Long Room at the County Ground.

They then had prime seats to watch Storm’s Kia Super League victory over Yorkshire Diamonds.

Steve Gass, SCB growth & participation officer, told the County Gazette: “We’ve had lots of positive comments.

“A lot of people found it very inspiring to see so many women playing at the same time, and to hear from Heather Knight at the end.

“Hopefully, this will be the start of a cricketing journey for many; it was a great day.”

Bridgwater Mercury:

STAPLEGROVE (from left): back row - Meg Matthews, Denise Evely, Donna Hibbert, Donna Selway, Carla Trott, Lorraine Warren, Kelly Redwood, Ruth Dunn; front row - Claire Adam, Ruth Thompson, Josie Cross, Paris Tucker, Alix Redwood, Peta Aspden.