Cricket ace Jimmy Anderson is the pride of Lancashire after helping England retain the Ashes.

Jimmy, from Burnley, has been one of the true stars of the Ashes success, ripping out 17 Australia wickets in the four Test matches so far.

England completed the formalities of a first successful Ashes tour of Australia in 24 years yesterday on the fourth day of the fourth Test in Melbourne, winning by an innings and 157 runs to take a 2-1 lead in the series.

It capped a memorable month for the 28-year-old who dashed back from Australia straight after the second Test to witness the birth of his second baby daughter.

Jimmy was given permission by England management to make the 10,000-mile journey to be by his wife Daniella’s side for the birth.

Speaking at the time, his uncle Neil said: “I am sure it was easier for him to come back with England doing so well.”

Jimmy started his career at Burnley Cricket Club and made his debut in 1998 for Burnley’s first XI away at East Lancashire, claiming figures of 1-13 in eight overs.

Lancashire Cricket Club snapped up his services in 2002 and he made his first England debut in December in a one-day international against Australia.

John Stubbs, chairman at Burnley Cricket Club, said the town was ‘proud’ of Jimmy’s achievements.

He said: “It’s marvellous for the town and the cricket club. He has done a great job.”

Jimmy had never previously enjoyed success Down Under with the Kookaburra ball, which doesn’t swing as much as the Dukes ball used in most parts of the cricket world.

Mr Stubbs said: “He was not the most fancied bowler out there but he has come up trumps. It’s terrific.

“He has come a long way since playing for us. I wouldn’t say he was unbelievably good but he was a talented player, very dedicated.”

Jimmy said: “The Barmy Army have been fantastic throughout this trip and have made a lot of Australian grounds feel like home for us.”