LONG-serving Kidderminster and District Cricket Umpires Association has pulled up stumps for the final time after 68 years of existence.

A combination of re-organisation coupled with an ageing membership has caused the Association to be given out.

Secretary Brian Kelly said: "It's a sad day and with great regret that we've had to call time.

"Our numbers have dwindled and at the last couple of meetings, we've only had five and six members turn up."

In it's heyday, Association members officiated in the Birmingham, Worcestershire, Kidderminster and Wilden Leagues.

They also took charge of County Second XI fixtures, public school matches plus youth and county police competitions.

Mr Kelly recalled: "We must have comprised of 30 to 40 active members at one stage, maybe more and we would meet on a regular basis to discuss all aspects of umpiring."

Cash assets remaining from the Association have been donated to the youth sections of Kidderminster, Stourport and Bewdley Cricket clubs.