OFFICIALS in the Northern Premier and Westmorland Cricket leagues will wear daffodils on their umpiring uniforms when the season gets under way later this month.

The decision was taken by officials across Cumbria, whether they are members of the English Cricket Board - Association of Cricket Officials or not, to support the Marie Curie Cancer Fund and to raise awareness of cancer.

Stewart Hulse, secretary for the Cumbria Association of Cricket Officials, said: “The umpires concerned will be ‘standing’ in the Northern League, North Lancs League, Westmorland League and Eden Valley Cricket League. We decided to show our support and make a visual awareness of this dreadful disease to all who follow cricket, both on and off the field. In some little way we hope that other people will follow us in supporting cancer charities in general.”

* Milnthorpe will face Keswick in the first round of the Bluefin County Cup on Sunday, April 29, with the winners due to face a home clash against Barrow in the second round.

Arnside travel to Workington and would face a second round clash away to Vickerstown if they win.

Appleby Eden have been drawn away to Penrith in the second round, with Kendal drawn against the winners of Millom v Silverdale.

* In the John Scott Cup, Netherfield will face a first round clash against Great Corby, with Milnthorpe due to face Haverigg at home on Sunday, May 13. Appleby Eden will travel to Vickerstown.

* Kendal start their season this Sunday with a pre-season friendly at home to Edgeworth from the Bolton Association (1pm). After the match there is a party to celebrate the 50th birthday of Kendal long-serving batsman Terry Hunte. Netherfield will host Washington CC for three friendlies between Friday and Sunday, with T20 and 50-over matches.