Ian Gregory's departure leaves 'big shoes to fill' for Cricket Shropshire

Gregory, who lives in Bridgnorth, has completed his spell as a Cricket Development Officer in Shropshire to take on a role with Chance to Shine in the North and Midlands area.

During his six-year stint with Cricket Shropshire, Gregory liaised with clubs in the south of the county, and has also had a particular responsibility for the women and girls' performance squads.

In his time, he has seen a big growth in participation for the women and girls' game in the county, which culminated in the Shropshire Women's XI winning their league this summer.

The former Oldbury Wells student, who has played cricket for both Quatt and Bridgnorth, has also been in charge of the Chance to Shine programme in Shropshire, which has seen him taking on a hands-on role in coaching at primary and secondary schools across the county.

He has also overseen the development of Cricket Shropshire's profile on social media and produced the regular newsletter.

He said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working for Cricket Shropshire.

"My role has allowed me to give something back to the clubs and county which provided a positive cricketing experience as a junior player.

"I have worked with a broad range of cricketers, coaches and volunteers, all of whom have a different outlook and energy for the game.

"Seeing young cricketers excel and enjoy the game has been a great motivator to getting out of bed in the morning and either setting up the cones in a playground or tapping away at the keys on my laptop in the office."

Cricket Shropshire

general manager Cox said: "

His knowledge of the women's and girls' game is outstanding both locally and nationally and we have big shoes to fill with his departure. However, it is an exciting opportunity for Ian and we wish him well."