Members of Oswestry's Cricket Federation for People with Disabilities (CFPD) Oswestry Focus group recently met with Rotarians to receive a donation from Oswestry Rotary Club's Tree of Light Appeal 2017.

The CFPD was formed in Shropshire back in 1994 to give disabled people the opportunity to develop their cricket skills regardless of the severity of their disability and also provide information on all aspects of disability cricket. There are three Focus clubs in Shropshire (Shrewsbury, St Georges and Oswestry) who, along with the Welsh Dragons from Wrexham, make up three teams who offer competitive league cricket for players with both physical disabilities and learning difficulties.

Coach Graham Furber, recognised by both the England Cricket Board and his former employers the NHS for nearly 30 years' outstanding service to disability cricket, said: "You get the full spectrum in disability coaching. From people who have lost a limb to those that are as fit as you or I but can't understand what you're saying. It certainly makes you change your approach to coaching."

During the spring and summer, festivals are held at prestigious grounds around the country giving players the chance to not only visit but play at some of the nation's top venues. Several Oswestry players, including Tom Shackell and Rachael Evans, are members of the England CFPD team who enjoy annual 'international tests' with Wales at Lords and Newport.

Speaking of the donation, Tom said that they were grateful for the cheque which will enable to group to pay for essential new equipment and hire of halls as the members prepare for their matches with Wales.