WEST Indian former fast bowler and World Cup winner Colin Croft helped to make this year’s Sporting Lunch at Neston Cricket a huge success.

Croft was guest speaker at the Sporting Lunch, which attracted 63 businesses from across the North West - a record number for the annual event.

Club President Tony Bush welcomed the 630 guests before introducing Croft, who had lots of cricketing tales. He was followed by Liverpool comedian and television presenter Ted Robbins.

General Manager Craig Stubbs said: “Our annual Sporting Lunch during marquee week is one of the most popular events in our calendar and we were delighted that this was another record-breaking year.

“It’s great that so many companies and corporates from across the North West book their tables year after year and continue to support the club and all our fund-raising efforts.

“We might have to consider a bigger marquee next year as we have such a long list of companies trying to get a table!”

The event was sponsored by IP company Forresters plus associate sponsors Macbryde Homes, Freeths Solicitors, Watts Commercial Finance, Bridging Finance Solutions and Molson Coors.

The drinks sponsors were Ginsmiths of Liverpool, Peroni and, new for this year, Taittinger who brought along their hot air balloon which had an impact on a record level of champagne sales.