AMBITIOUS Allendale Cricket club have made three new signings as they prepare for a new season in the Northumberland and Tyneside League.

The club’s first team will compete in Division Four, after its application to make the switch from the West Tyne League was confirmed.

Now Allendale have announced that three players - who have all previously represented the club - will return to the fold ahead of the new campaign.

They include former Allendale opener Ben Lloyd, who was a prolific performer for Haltwhistle last season, scoring 858 runs in the West Tyne League, at an average of 50.47.

Lloyd clocked up four centuries, and had a memorable innings of 188 not out against Belsay.

The batsman will be joined by two other familiar faces, with Ali Stobbs and Charles Sale rejoining the ranks.

All three were key members of Allendale’s 2017 league and cup winning team.

Allendale captain Tim Raglan said: “We are delighted to have been accepted into the new league, and are looking forward to the challenge of starting out in Division Four with the aim of progressing.

“It’s great to welcome back three players with connections to Allendale, who are keen to play at a higher standard of cricket and be part of the club’s vision.

“Ben had such a great season with Haltwhistle last year. Ali and Charles weren’t involved with cricket last year, but are keen to play a big part once again as they have done in the past.”

Raglan said Allendale were hoping to make another two or three signings ahead of the new campaign.

Off the field, Allendale have appointed Melanie Pepper as the club’s welfare officer.

Another familiar face at the club, she is known for carrying out voluntary work in the community.

Raglan added: “Melanie’s appointment is a great one for the club and we are all working hard to have everything in place for the new season. Another two or three players and we’ll be set.”