A village cricket club on the edge of Solihull is celebrating after fielding its first-ever girls-only team.

Lapworth Cricket Club marked the milestone on Monday 6 July, with a team of girls taking to the field together for the first time in the club's history.

The club, which has grown rapidly in recent years, now boasts three senior Saturday teams in the Cotswold Hills League, a Sunday XI in the Arden League, a midweek T20 side and a thriving junior section.

Sean Cross, who helps run the Lapworth, said the idea came after seeing more girls getting involved in cricket through the club's junior teams.

He said: "Our club has always made inclusivity our main objective.

"At the start of the season, we noticed that we had a number of girls taking part in different teams.

"I spoke to a number of parents and suggested the idea of putting together a girls-only team and I was astounded by the positive response I received.

He added: "Due to Monday's success, we will now be looking at putting a girls-only team together more frequently, with the aim of joining a girls-only competition.

"These are definitely exciting times for the club."

The match was praised by parents and volunteers alike, with many highlighting the positive atmosphere and support shown between players.

Nicola Sawle, who umpired and kept score during the game, said: "It was fantastic to have an all-girls cricket match.

"The girls had a great time with plenty of smiles and laughter all round.

"The highlight for me was the way the girls were so supportive and encouraging of each other and the opposition."

Clare Woodcock, whose daughter played in the match and represents Warwickshire at age-group level, described the occasion as a proud moment for the club.

She said: "Watching their first-ever match was a joy and seeing my daughter and her teammates play with such enthusiasm, teamwork, and smiles made it even more special.

"A huge thank you to everyone who helped make it happen, hopefully the first of many memorable days for Lapworth Girls."

The achievement comes just three years after Lapworth Cricket Club launched its junior section.

What began with around 20 children has grown to more than 70 young players across its All Stars programme and five junior teams for children aged nine to 15.

Club officials say they hope to continue growing their junior section and facilities while encouraging even more girls and boys to get involved in cricket.