LECHLADE CC coach Luke Sellers is urging other people to follow in his footsteps and use their love of cricket to make a difference in Africa.

The charity Cricket Without Boundaries is looking for enthusiastic volunteers – qualified or unqualified – for projects in autumn 2014 and spring 2015.

Luke has been to Kenya and Uganda in the last 18 months and is hoping to go on a trip again later this year.

He said: “Volunteering with CWB is quite simply one of the best things I have ever done. Both the projects I have been on were truly memorable experiences and I can’t wait to go again.

“To be able to use your coaching skills to make a difference and have a huge amount of fun at the same time is fantastic.

"The children over there are so enthusiastic that you can’t help but come away with a huge smile on your face.”

A typical project is two weeks long and includes coaching in schools, training local teachers and coaches and running cricket festivals.

Groups consist of six to 10 CWB volunteers supported by local coaches from the country’s cricket association. Training is given to the whole group at a weekend camp before you leave.

And although coaching sessions in Africa, seem a long way from LCC’s Manor Ground home, Luke says the experience has benefited his coaching back in the UK

He said: “As well as being a great way to visit a new country, the projects offer a unique chance for you to improve your coaching, teamwork, communication and leadership skills.

“After coaching in Africa you feel you can handle any challenge in a coaching session back here.

“I can’t recommend the experience enough."

Other local coaches to have volunteered with CWB before include Lechlade’s John Merrett and David Dunn from Poulton CC.

For more information on CWB, including how to apply, visit www.cricketwithoutboundaries.com.