Well I'm back from my adventures Down Under and already my memories of patting kangaroos, cuddling koalas and watching penguins are a fast fading memory as I turn my attention back to my beloved Grassroots.

For I have already been back in work for a week and on Saturday I got to watch my first cricket match of the season -- which apparently is no mean feat considering the weather you had while I was away.

It's funny, it's winter in Australia but the weather was still a lot hotter than the summer sunshine we are currently 'basking' in.

By the way, I never did get to bump in to Blackburn with Darwen fire brigade player Paul Brown who was also in Sydney!

My hopes of losing the pounds piled on while on my trip to Oz have had to be shelved for a week after I got the call from Memorial Sunday League secretary Harry Dewhurst.

For while I was considering my options of going running with Darwen Dashers or turning out for GW Floorings in the East Lancs seven-a-side league, Harry phoned up and made my mind up for me.

For Harry kindly asked me to hand out the trophies at the league's award night on Thursday night.

Naturally, I was honoured but now I just hope I can squeeze myself in to my suit trousers.

So I'll see you all on Thursday night and if you see me looking a bit fidgety then that's because my game kicks off at 9pm so I might make a hasty exit!

Blackburn Harriers are promoting a new initiative to bring youngsters into athletics by launching a new poster campaign in schools and the local community.

The club has received grant aid from Sport England and the local Sports Council while a Star Track scheme will be held at Witton Park on August 6-8. Contact Joe Fleming on 01254 249862 for details.

Meanwhile, the club holds an open track and field meeting at Witton Park tonight from 7pm.