Panel umpires will be used in Division 2 1st XI matches for the first time in the Shepherd Neame Kent Cricket League this season.

Members voted in favour of their introduction at last week’s annual meeting at Hartley Cricket Club, the main item on the agenda which was completed in just half an hour.

League spokesman Errol Valentine said: "There was nothing contentious, and it was all pretty plain sailing, apart from a couple of minor rule changes due to the extension of the umpires panel."

Attendance was high despite the wintry weather with 40 of the 60 clubs attending, while others who apologised in advance for not being able to attend escaped the usual £50 fine for non-attendance.

Mr Valentine added: "We were very impressed with the turn-out and only one club, who I won’t name, failed to show."

The new season starts on May 9.