TWO courses will take place at Astley Bridge Cricket Club next month to help people become cricket umpires.

A stage one course will take place every Tuesday from January 15 to February 5 between 7.30pm and 9.30pm.

It will be followed by a stage two course, again on Tuesday nights between 7.30pm and 9.30pm, from February 19 to March 12.

The cost for stage one is £30 with stage two – which can only be taken after stage one has been completed – reduced to £10 if booked using a discount code from the stage one booking.

For information on how to book visit the Bolton Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association website boltonumps.co.uk and click on 'notices/training'.

Astley Bridge CC are also staging a scorers' course which will follow the umpires' courses.

The Association of Cricket Officials' scorers' courses will also be held on successive Tuesday nights between 7.30pm and 9.30pm from March 19 to April 9.

It aims to provide knowledge of how to correctly complete a scorebook as well as giving an insight into some of the laws of the game which relate to scorers.

It is suitable for people who have a little scoring experience, although that is not essential.

The cost is £30 which includes all course material.

To book a place visit the ECB ACO website or for further information email knott_karen@hotmail.com or call David Heap on 07821 154389.

Anyone wishing to learn how to complete a scorebook only can attend an introduction to scoring course on Tuesday, April 16, again at Astley Bridge CC between 7.30pm and 9.30pm.

It is suitable for people with no experience at scoring and the cost is £5. Course materials are provided.

Training will also be given on the use of CricHQ on a date to be decided following this course.