Young cricketers from Devon are on a once-in-a-lifetime tour with a sparkle in their eyes thanks to local jeweller John Doble.
John is one of several businesses sponsoring the Devon under-15s development tour to South Africa. Dobles, who have shops in Torquay, Exeter, Totnes and Brixham, have helped to sponsor the tour shirts and glossy brochure.
The tour party has games against tough opposition first in the Kruger Park and then in Cape Town during the 17-day action-packed trip. The tour, celebrating its 21st year, was first launched by former manager Alan Swift.
Current manager Jim Parker said: "We owe so much to Alan for starting and establishing this inspirational tour. It is, most importantly, what it says it is - a 'development' tour. It will help develop the players not only as cricketers but as individuals and create for them some magical moments and lasting memories."
The 14-strong squad for the tour is Henry Squire (Thorveton CC), Jack Martin (Plympton), Joe Gillett (Kentisbeare), Joel Kopparambil (Ivybridge), Luke Thomas (Sampford Peverell and Tiverton), Marco Bell (Culmstock), Matt Mattravers (Honiton) Matthew Whalley (Plymstock), Tom Rintoul (Exmouth), Zach Vukusic (Exeter), Alex Shutt (Yelverton), Alfie Mason (Exeter and Kenn), Elijah Pyne (Exmouth), Harvey Cronkshaw (Heathcoat).
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here