Our very own couch potato, 'Spud' and many of those at the Durham City taster session give Active Durham a resounding '6'

'I think it's excellent!' Roger Hancock (68) Durham City Centre.

'The coaches kept it going and we had lots of fun and some challenges.' Jill Hancock (wife)

For many of the nearly 50 people who enjoyed Active Durham's cricket taster day at Durham City Cricket Club it was the first time they'd ever tried cricket. For almost all it was the first time they'd had the chance to play at a proper ground.

There was free expert coaching in everything from umpiring to catching and bowling to batting. There was even a mini Twenty20 match featuring 2 special celebrity guests. Those who had registered to take part on the day were split in to 2 grounds, one captained by Durham FM Radio presenter Peter Grant, the other captained by Active Durham's resident couch potato, 'Spud.'

Who won? Well it was a close run thing, each took 4 wickets but Peter's team clinched it with a winning score of 20 runs. Well done one and all.

If you thought cricket was a boys sport, well here's the verdict of 11 year old Rosa Hacket from Shincliffe, 'I liked it because you got to play in little groups with people that you knew so you could still chat while playing!'

And for 5 year old Naomi Erleback? 'I liked it best when we had to throw the ball to each other.'

There were lots of other chances to experience a taste of cricket this month including a fantastically successful session at Abbey Leisure for adults with disabilities. 22 over 16's thoroughly enjoyed

The free event which was delivered by the Community Cricket Coach fro Durham Cricket Board Ron Young. It's hoped the session will lead to a more sustained sporting interest through the centre's Active Adults programme.

But if you missed it don't worry you can still register for any of the other months at durhamcity.gov.uk/Leisure. Grab your mate or phone your mum and why not try one of our free guided bike rides in September. You can even use one of our bikes, now available at all 6 Durham Leisure venues. Active Durham is also sponsoring the 'Middle Bike Ride' which is part of the very successful Durham Big Ride on September 21st. At just 10 miles it's a lot shorter but takes in lots of stunning views.

Keep you eyes open for the launch of our new Family Fun Run in October, and in November you could get a month's free gym useage! Go on get on board the Active Durham band wagon and give something a try while it's all FREE!