The Bristol Phoenix women's cricket club are trying to raise £10,000 to send a squad to compete in an international under-19 tournament in South Africa in March.

A recent sponsored walk from Thornbury to Gloucestershire CCC's County Ground in Bristol boosted the coffers by around £2,000, while bag packing at local supermarkets is helping players chip away at their target with other activities planned before heading for Cape Town.

Mike Collett, who is organsing the trip, said: "It promises to be an excellent event and a great test for us. Lancashire Under-19s and an ECB Under-16 development squad are also coming from the UK to take on three South African sides."

The Phoenix were formed only a year ago when the female sections of Chipping Sodbury, Shirehampton and Thornbury consolidated their resources.

The result is a thriving club that fielded five adult and junior teams over the summer, completing a total of almost 60 fixtures.

The highlight was the under-15s finishing runners-up in the Lady Taverners National Finals in Shropshire, while the under-17s lifted the Europa Cup in Munich in May. The first XI finished second in the South West regional championship, while Charlotte Walker represented England Under-19s at the recent Indoor World Cup in Australia. And the under-13, 15 and 17 sides fulfilled a full programme of Bristol Youth League fixtures.

Winter nets are already underway at Castle School, Thornbury, and are open to players aged from eight upwards. For details, call Mike Collett on 07778 195488.

Player of the year awards – Senior – First XI: Alex McDonald. Second XI: Sophie Williams.

Under-17: Fi Morris.

Under-15: Emily Waldron.

Under-13: Jo Cull.

Special award: Hannah Thompson.