A BRECONSHIRE cricket club fears it could have to declare time on its 164 year history.

Crickhowell Cricket Club is struggling with a player shortage on top of new responsibilities for maintaining its own pitch which has placed a fresh financial burden on the Marches League club.

Chairman Lawrence Watts shrugged: "Unfortunately cricket is a dying sport, which is extremely sad.

"Ideally I hope we can get thorough this season, hopefully we can batten down the hatches and pull together for this season, but there could be a few bleak years ahead."

Powys County Council has told cricket teams, and other sports clubs, they must pay for the maintenance of pitches - which could cost amateur teams like Crickhowell as much as £250 a week.

The club, which finished fourth in the league last summer, is hoping a new sponsor and volunteers can help keep the club going, while he says any new players will also be made very welcome.

If any individuals or local businesses are in a position to help, contact Lawrence on 07966 622191.

Read the full story in this week's Brecon & Radnor Express - on sale now