TICKETS are still available for Weymouth Cricket Club’s first-ever sports and social evening, which takes place at the Riviera Hotel on Friday.

There has been a lot of interest in the inaugural club event but places remain on offer, with ex-England and Surrey batsman Graham Thorpe the star attraction.

Thorpe, pictured, who made his debut for Surrey in 1988 and his international bow five years later, will be the guest speaker on what is likely to be a night to remember.

One of Wisden’s Cricketers of the Year in 1998, Thorpe scored a century in the second innings of his Test match debut against Australia at Trent Bridge.

An elegant stroke-maker, during his highest Test score of 200 not out against New Zealand at Christ-church in 2002, he and Andrew Flintoff compiled a partnership of 281.

Seasiders’ spokesman David Trot-ter said: “We hope to raise funds for the club and help with the continued drive to encourage and provide cricket in the community.

“Our overall aim is to move forward with improved facilities and equipment and meet head on the challenges that we as a club face. “The event has been sponsored by the Riviera Hotel and will be run in partnership with the cricket club.”

The evening will be hosted by a comedian compere and includes live entertainment from local band Bucket, a three-course meal and sports auction run by Fundraising Auctions.

Tickets are £45 each, £450 for a table of 10, and if you are interested, contact Laurie Whyte on 776955.