Recent cricket development in Stevenage is reaping rewards. As previously reported in The Comet, the under-13 side won the district championship. After losing to East Herts in the 2005 final, the Stevenage under-13s went one better this year by thrashing

Recent cricket development in Stevenage is reaping rewards.

As previously reported in The Comet, the under-13 side won the district championship.

After losing to East Herts in the 2005 final, the Stevenage under-13s went one better this year by thrashing Watford by 125 runs in the championship decider.

Stevenage earned the right to play in the final by winning the East Conference, which included Welwyn/Hatfield, North Herts, Broxbourne and East Herts.

They met West Conference winners Watford in the grand final at the Old Albanians ground near St Albans.

After being sent into bat in damp conditions, Stevenage scored 212 without loss from 30 overs. Openers James MacDonald and Jason Chapman finished 81no and 89no respectively.

Stevenage then dismissed Watford for just 87 in 21 overs. Liam Bailie was the best of the bowlers, claiming four wickets for just three runs.

Stevenage mayor Simon Speller said: "This was a terrific performance from a talented group of youngsters and shows the giant leaps that have been made in local cricket development.

"I would like to congratulate the team and everyone involved in helping them win this title."

Stevenage Borough Council and Stevenage Cricket Club provide the funding for local cricket development coach Gareth Berg.