REDDITCH CC coach Stephen Harrey has had his efforts developing grassroots cricket recognised when he was presented with a special certificate by former England player David Lloyd during the first Ashes Test at Trent Bridge.

Harrey was given the exclusive opportunity to attend the Test Match as part of the Sky Sports ECB Coach Education programme.

Fourteen coaches met with Lloyd during the lunch break in Nottingham, all of whom were being acknowledged by the programme’s Reward and Recognition scheme.

More than 100 coaches from across the country will have their efforts recognised during the 2013 season, which comprises of a series of on-pitch presentations by various cricket legends and the Sky Sports broadcast team.

Harrey oversees Redditch’s youth section as chairman with more than 100 juniors and coaches the under-15s, 13s and 12s.

He liaises with the senior section to take the Kingfishers forward and bring youth talent through the clubs age groups in to the senior sides.

“The programme provides access to kit and equipment that massively helps with my role,” said a delighted Harrey.

“It also helps to provide better training sessions for the players.

“I am overwhelmed and very grateful for the award.

“Having my hard work recognised by club and county on a day like this makes it very special.”

The Sky Sports ECB Coach Education Programme aims to attract and train coaches at all levels of cricket in England and Wales, developing coaching skills from playground to test arena.

The programme’s Reward and Recognition scheme aims to identify those cricket coaches across England and Wales that go above and beyond the call of duty to help grassroots cricket flourish.