A HORWICH cricketer has just competed at a prestigious national competition.

Last week, Tom Billington was in action at the Bunbury Festival which brings together some of the best up-and-coming cricketers from around the country.

The 15-year-old represented the North of England and was one of only two players from Lancashire to earn a spot at the top junior cricket event.

Proud dad David said: “He really enjoyed it.

“He has not done overly well with the bat which was a bit disappointing but it was a great chance for him to show off his talent.

“It was a great achievement for him to be selected for this stage as 44 lads managed to get picked for each region.

“There are only five regions as well and our one is quite tough to get into because there are players from Northumberland, Cheshire, Yorkshire and Lancashire.

“It is the 20th festival and when you think that 300 players from the tournament have gone on to play for England and thousands represented their county.

“The weather has also been great.”

Billington has broken into the first team at Horwich and among his highlights this season included hitting an unbeaten 105 for Lancashire U15s against Cheshire.

During the festival Tom was presented with a cap by ex-England star Graeme Swann.