THE I’Anson have struggled to recruit younger umpires and so the management committee has been delighted to support the development of a newly qualified Level 1 umpire. She is 15-year-old Jennifer Bowman, from a cricketing family connected to Byfleet CC.

Jenny undertook the Level 1 qualification, held at Frensham CC over the winter, under the tutelage of John Gray and his team, and passed the exam with flying colours.

Having followed the necessary protocols regarding her age, the I’Anson have already appointed her to Division Two matches this season, standing alongside experienced pool umpires.

The Surrey Association of Cricket Officers says she is the only umpire under the age of 18 umpiring in competitive cricket in the county.

After her early experiences of I’Anson matches, Jenny is keen to continue with her development as an umpire and the competition will continue to support and encourage her.