Children as young as three are being encouraged to develop their cricket skills.

CricKids for youngsters aged three to six, CricSoft for six- to 10-year-olds and CricFit for the over 14s are part of an initiative involving schools, clubs and community groups.

Isle of Man Cricket Association development officer Greig Wright said: ’The response has exceeded expectations. There is a real focus on engaging with youngsters from a very early age and our hope is that they develop a real passion for the sport and continue through the ranks at a club level and can then represent the Isle of Man. Everyone is really enthusiastic and keen to get going.’

All six of the island’s cricket clubs with junior sections will be running the CricStart programme during the summer.

Youngsters who sign up will be given CricStart branded kit.