AN ENGLAND cricketer who grew up in Catford is returning to her home town to inspire girls to pick up a bat.

Susie Rowe will be joined by fellow England players Lydia Greenway and Beth Morgan at Catford Wanderers Cricket Club - which is launching a girls’ cricket group.

The free coaching session for girls from seven years up takes place at the club in Beckenham Hill on May 22 from 5.30pm to 7pm.

The England Women's Coaching Ambassador said: "I spent the first 18 years of my life growing up in Catford. "For me opportunities to play cricket in Lewisham were limited and I had to travel to Hayes to play girls club cricket.

"I am delighted that Catford Wanderers are getting behind women’s cricket and being a Catford girl myself I am passionate about giving girls from the area where I grew up the chance to play the sport I love.

"Hopefully it will inspire girls to become part of a rapidly growing sport for girls and join the ladies section at Catford Cricket Club as a result."

Booking is not needed for the event organised by Chance to Shine and Kent Cricket Board and for more information contact Natasha Newman at natasha.newman.kent@ecb.co.uk