Cricket fans' bowled idea aims to avoid sticky wickets

A GROUP of cricket fanatics have said they are bowled over by the success of their Edenbridge-based business venture.

Keen players Andy Redden, 47, Andy Eames, 26, and Paul Eames, 56, all from Speldhurst, took a big risk three years ago when they left their jobs to set up a cricket equipment business.

But the trio have hit a six with Willostix, a company which aims to develop promising young players, as well as creating the first full set of cricket gear for women.

Speaking to the Courier from the business premises at Wintersell Farm on Dwelly Lane, Mr Redden said: "We are proud of this because it's a really difficult market at the moment.

"There is so much against small businesses but I think there is a massive opportunity for small businesses if you can get it right in this market and work really hard."

The threesome have been playing for Bidborough Cricket Club for more than 10 years and came up with the idea to go into business while chatting in the pub.

Mr Redden said: "We thought there was a big hole in the market for a brand which offered really good quality to develop young cricketers and very good club cricketers."

They now supply kit and bats to a number of individuals and clubs, including Hartley Country Club, who won the Kent Primary League in 2008 and Glynde Cricket Club, who triumphed in the nPower National Village Cup 2009 at Lord's.

In addition to this they supply to four Kent county players, as well as providing a fun day out for bus loads of Oxford University students on an annual jolly for kit and equipment.

All the willow used to make the bats is sourced from Essex and Somerset.

Mr Redden, who used to work in advertising before becoming an artist, designs the artwork on the bats which can be customised by players seeking a more individual look.

The team are even trying to push the boundaries in bat design with their new product called The Stick which explores the benefits of a changed shape.

Mr Redden said: "We have built this business from the grass roots up.

"I think it's everyone's dream to be able to have a go at making a business out of something you love."