freya johnson

Former Australia captain Meg Lanning’s superb 81 from 49 balls was not enough to secure victory for Lancashire Thunder as the Blaze successfully chased 163 at Emirates Old Trafford. England opener Tammy Beaumont’s 54 off 29 balls was key as The Blaze clutched a win on the road in the final over. The Blaze began under the scorching heat with a strong start from bowler Grace Ballinger (2-14) in just the second over as she stopped Thunder batter Eve Jones before she could really hit her stride.

Half-centuries from captain Keaton Jennings, Matty Hurst and Ben McDermott put Lancashire Lightning in command on 208-4 before four wickets by Tom Hartley earned a 39-run victory against Notts Outlaws at Old Trafford. Lancashire opener Jennings led the side by example, hitting a solid 51 off 31 balls, which saw him surpass 2,000 T20 runs for Lancashire Lightning and become the fastest player to achieve this for the club.

The start of November means Christmas time is just around the corner and for towns and cities across the North West the celebrations are starting to emerge. From Christmas light festivals, to markets full of cheerful delights and train rides to visit the big man there’s something for everyone in the lead up to the holiday season.