A CHARITY cricket tournament saw hundreds of pounds raised for the Friends of Chernobyl’s Children charity.

Cumbria Nuclear Solutions Limited (CNSL) kicked off its ‘Decade of Safe Decommissioning’ celebrations through the consortium’s second annual charity cricket event.

The six companies held this year’s tournament at Cleator Cricket Club in aid of charity which helps disadvantaged children who are suffering from the aftermath of the Chernobyl accident in 1986.

CNSL is a consortium comprising James Fisher Nuclear, REACT Engineering, Shepley Engineers, Jacobs Stobbarts, Westinghouse Electric Company and WYG.

They are celebrating their tenth anniversary of nuclear decommissioning in 2016 and have committed to a year of community events to celebrate this significant achievement.

Nick Houghton, CNSL director and chairman, said the day was a great success and was enjoyed by all on what was a glorious West Cumbrian day.

For the second year in succession, the event coincided with the visit of the children from Belarus, who are currently in West Cumbria staying with various host families whilst enjoying all that the Lake District has to offer.

Mr Houghton said: “Once again, CNSL’s annual charity cricket match was a roaring success, and to raise funds and awareness for such a worthwhile charity is a privilege.

"CNSL is proud to achieve a ‘Decade of Safe Decommissioning’ and being able to celebrate this significant milestone with our local community whilst having fun is a great feeling.”

Mike Starkie, Copeland mayor, attended to support the event and met the children, who had a fun filled day playing football and cricket in the sun.

The funds raised by CNSL’s charity match, nearly £800 in total, will contribute towards ensuring that the children can visit the area again next year, and many subsequent years, allowing the children to gain some life-enhancing experiences.

CNSL is delighted to be able to continue supporting such a worthwhile cause and looks forward to the children visiting next year, in time for the third annual CNSL charity cricket match.

CNSL would like to thank Cleator Cricket Club for hosting the event, and congratulate WYG, the winners of the 2016 tournament.