Veteran cricketers ready to bowl £1m into local economy

As many as 39 teams from as far afield as Australia, New Zealand and South Africa as well as lesser-known cricketing nations including Canada, Japan and the USA are due to play against local opposition in the week-long festival in August.

The organisers, Nidderdale Amateur Cricket League, have managed to secure the services of Ray Illingworth as the festival ambassador. The former England captain and all-rounder will be touring grounds to meet some of those taking part.

The Golden Oldies World Cricket Festival – which runs from August 8 until August 15 – is open to anyone over 40, although the average age is nearer 55 and the oldest players will be in their mid-70s.

Festival chairman Sir Thomas Ingilby said: "Many friends will be made on and off the pitch and cricketers often say abroad that their cricketing career is not complete unless they have played in England."

About 900 people are expected at the event with most staying in Harrogate for eight nights – the basis of the economic benefit calculation.

Welcome to Yorkshire chief executive Gary Verity said: "The festival will be a wonderful celebration of Yorkshire's rich cricketing heritage and hospitality, set among our picturesque towns and villages."

Each team will play three international friendlies. Altogether, 43 cricket grounds, from York to Sessay, Bedale, Lofthouse and Middlesmoor will be used. The week starts with a grand parade around Masham market square on August 8.

The first Golden Oldies Cricket Festival was held in Auckland in New Zealand in 1984. Other venues have included Brisbane, Cape Town and Vancouver.

The deadline for entries is next Tuesday – using forms online at www.nidderdaleleague.co.uk.