Liberty set for big year

Libby, 12, who is at Lowerhouse CC, has played cricket since the age of eight and after only two months of playing, was selected for Lancashire Under 11 girls’ squad.

Last year she was named Lancashire Under 11 Girls’ Player of the Year and this year was captain of the squad.

She also scored 100 not out, making her the youngest girl to achieve a century for Lancashire in a county game.

She is currently focusing on a county call-up to the Lancashire Under 13 squad, with final selections in December.

Jen Laycock, Women and Girls Cricket Development Officer at Old Trafford, said: “Libby has a hunger to score runs, a determination to succeed and is showing she has the talent to match.

“Libby has demonstrated patience to bat for time and to look to better her game each time. She has had a very successful season in 2015, making her maiden century and picking up her award. I wish her all the best for the future and look forward to seeing her develop.”

Libby, whose stepdad Ben Heap was Padiham’s professional this year, had played various county games for the Under 13s and is now is concentrating on a full call-up.

The Year Seven student recently won the annual 2BR local hero award and lists her role models as England cricket captain Charlotte Edwards and Lancashire and England player Kate Cross.