Once he had embarked on the research he realised that a short article would not do full justice to the topic. The pioneers of the sport in schools deserved a more extended tribute, which led to the publication of a 64 page booklet.

With the support of the County Library Service, Four Sheets Publishers (Mansfield Road) agreed to publish the book - the first edition appearing in December 2002. The account ranges from the establishment of organised cricket in 1903, through two World Wars, into the Golden Age of the 1950's and 1960's and into the unfortunate regression in the 1970's and 1980's. The latter part of the book describes the regeneration of schools cricket in the 1990's and up to the present day.

It points to the emergence of boys, who as men went on to make their mark in County Cricket: Robin Bilbie, Tony Siddons, Roy Dexter, John Birch, Andy Pick, the Curzon brothers and Bobby Chapman. Also in Usman Afzaal and recently Bilal Shafayat, left their mark on the international arena. It also features many who became accomplished local cricketers, and also those who went on to find fame in other sporting fields: David Pleat, David Smith, David Limb, David McVay, Steve Chettle and Andrew Jarrett.

With five City boys including Afzaal and Shafayat, currently in the Notts. squad, the future of the game in schools looks much brighter than at any stage since the 70's.

The production of the book has been a real labour of love for Neil and it makes fascinating reading. It is a celebration of the dedication of staff and pupils alike and a reminder of how schools nurture talent beyond the classsroom.

Copies are available at £5 from the City Tourist Information Office on Long Row, from Sport in Print on Radcliffe Road opposite The Trent Bridge Inn or from Neil Kendrick on 0115 9565008.
All proceeds will go to the funding of cricket in Nottingham City Schools.