DOZENS of cricket lovers enjoyed a 'once in a life-time opportunity' at Pontblyddyn this week.

Sport enthusiasts queued up at Pontblyddyn Cricket Club on Wednesday evening to have their picture taken with the World Cup trophy.

Ian Martin, head of disability cricket for ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board), said the opportunity arose for him to bring the trophy to his local club before it is safely kept on display at Lords Cricket Club in London.

He told the Leader: "It's great to have the opportunity to share the success of the national squad with grassroots clubs because without the grassroots clubs we wouldn't have the successful national squads.

"It's a once in a lifetime opportunity.

"I think the Cricket World Cup captured everyone's imagination with the dramatic climax to the tournament and it's been fantastic to see so many people coming down to the club to see it."

England won the Cricket World Cup for the first time in history, at the twelfth attempt.

The final Vs New Zealand saw the game finish as a tie before England won on a 'Super Over', leaving many fans on the edge of their seats.

Nick Jones, chair of Pontblyddyn Cricket Club, said: "It's a fantastic thing for the club and the Cricket World Cup was a thrilling game.

"Hopefully it will inspire more youngsters, which it already has done. We have had an influx of young people since the final game.

"To have the cup here is fantastic. We only knew about it yesterday so it's all been last minute.

"I would like to thank Ian Martin for bringing it here and making a lot of people happy."

Cricket fans were full of smiles as they posed for photographs next to the trophy.

Donations were also accepted and over £70 was raised for Hope House.

Gareth Jones said is is an inspiration for all those involved.

He added: "For these kids it's an inspiration. They all watched the world cup and to have the trophy here inspires them to play cricket

"With cricket being a dying sport unfortunately, because football is taking over, hopefully it can create a bit of enthusiasm for the youngsters."