Exmouth Cricket Club are gearing up for the new season in the Tolchards Devon Cricket League by strengthening their squad with the signing of wicketkeeper-batsman Billy Reed.

An exciting performer in Devon cricket, Reed was a major factor in the rise of Kilmington CC over recent seasons, culminating in a brilliant campaign to win the A Division but the club was unfortunately denied promotion due to the absence of a youth set-up.

Exmouth skipper Fin Marks told the DCL website: “When we found out Billy had moved to Exmouth, we contacted him and he was keen to come across. Billy is an aggressive batter, a good player of spin and also very handy with the gloves.

“He gives us some flexibility within the team and some more depth, which is what we were lacking big time last season. I feel we have got lucky and are really happy to have him.”

Exmouth open their campaign in the Premier Division of the DCL with a home game against Sandford and then a trip to Paignton on May 11.

The opening weekend will also see Plympton hosting Bradninch & Kentisbeare, Sidmouth welcome Exeter, Paignton travel to Heathcoat and Cornwood are at home to a Bovey Tracey side who could be one of the teams to watch this term.

There was a pulsating derby in the Women’s Indoor Hardball League, with Exmouth 1sts taking on Exmouth 2nds, with Exmouth 1 winning by 58 runs. The 1sts followed that by beating Topsham St James by 34 runs, while the 2nds lost narrowly to Exeter University.

Exmouth Journal: Exmouth Hardball team

Down the road at Budleigh Salterton Cricket Club, there is great excitement for their campaign in the B Division, which begins with a trip to North Devon to play Bideford/Littleham/Westward Ho!

In preparation for the new season, the team at Budleigh have been trying to raise funds for some new practise nets, and it is a quest that took them to the heights of Dartmoor.

In brisk wintry conditions, a grand total of 21 abseilers took on the Haytor challenge, scaling the heights for an important fundraising appeal, more details of which can be found on the Budleigh CC Facebook page. Well done to all those who took part, especially those who don’t enjoy heights!