THE future looks bright for Canterbury Cricket Club thanks to Kent and England all-rounder James Tredwell.

The spin bowler has been lending a hand at training sessions held by the club's successful Academy section.

Now in it's seventh year, the Academy aims to give promising younger players intensive winter training, all under the guidance of Canterbury's Andy Collins and former Kent coach Chris Stone.

With ages ranges from 13 to 19, several of the young players have already played for senior Canterbury sides.

Among those taking part in recent sessions were Dan Bonthuys (bowler), Sam Burt (wicketkeeper), Sam Curd (batsman), Robbie Curtis (bowler), George Flatman (all-rounder), Shaun O'Shea (bowler), Sam Robson (bowler), Ryan Olson (all-rounder), Matthew Mortley (batsman), Tom Hadler (all-rounder) and Ashley Apps (all-rounder).

Ahead of the new season the players will take part in Wednesday evening net sessions at Kent Cricket Academy.

Paul Steer, Canterbury first team skipper, said: "The Academy is an important part of our pathway strategy, helping our most promising young cricketers to make the transition to adult cricket."

The senior side have already returned to training in the nets.

They get their first season as a Kent League Premier Division side underway on May 5 when they are away to Bromley. They make their top flight home debut against Beckenham on May 12 at Polo Farm.