A women's cricket club is launching at a club founded more than 150 years ago.

As women are celebrated across the globe for International Women's Day yesterday (March 8), Walthamstow Cricket, Tennis and Squash Club has announced plans to field a female team for the first time.

Club chairman Derek Steward said: "I am absolutely thrilled that we are in a position to announce plans to field a women’s cricket team. This follows a significant amount of work, and the support of Waltham Forest Council who share our ambition to make cricket accessible and available to everybody in the local area.

"Cricket clubs which are not working hard to adapt and advance run risk of losing relevance in the hearts and minds of the community in the modern era. The key to this is being genuinely representative of the community in which it exists."

Indoor training sessions, for both adults and colts, will be held on Tuesday evenings at Willowfield School.

Councillor Naheed Asghar, Cabinet Member for Health & Voluntary Sector Partnerships, said: "I’m thrilled about this announcement that will open up cricket to women and girls who may not have had the opportunity to become involved before. I know there will be many, especially among the Asian community, who will be really keen to pick up a bat and ball and join the team.

"Taking part in sport boosts confidence, makes people feel healthier and better about themselves, and is a key building block to create strong, resilient communities where all feel welcome and have the support to enable them to make the most of their life chances in Waltham Forest."

For more information contact: walthamstowcc@gmail.com.