ESSEX Cricket Club are offering a number of free and discounted rates when purchasing a new membership at the Ford County Ground.

The offer, which runs until May 1 subject to availability, allows members free entry to the prestigious Australia Tourist 50-over day/night match and all home LV=County Championship and Clydesdale Bank 40 matches.

Discounted rates are also given for all five Friends Life T20 games in 2012, while a new Essex Cricket Voucher Book system offers discounts with local and national companies.

The initiatives are primarily designed to increase youngsters’ involvement in cricket with an under-18 membership costing �12.

Under the scheme ‘Hit Us For 6’, �6 of that sum is given back to each member’s club/school.

Ashley Neave, Head of Media and Communications at the Chelmsford-based club, believes it is the perfect opportunity to get youngsters excited about cricket with the summer approaching.

“It is a big summer of sport with the Olympics and other sporting events going on,” said Neave.

“The main aim is to get more juniors involved in cricket, both playing and watching.

“We have a big fan base already and it is something we are hoping to build on by getting more youngsters involved in the sport.”

For more details on membership, visit www.essexcricket.org.uk or call 01245 254010.