CRACKING cricketer Kevin Dixon looks set to woo the sporting fraternity in the North East after ditching his bat for a football.

For Kevin, from Penwortham, has decided to swap willow for leather and has set about making his mark in the world of football after being offered a coveted apprenticeship at Premiership giants Newcastle United.

Kevin, a former All Hallows high school pupil, was snapped up by Newcastle after making it into the county's school football squad.

His move to the North East means he will be following in the steps of his idol Alan Shearer, who, like Kevin, used to play for Blackburn Rovers.

And although £15 million isn't changing hands for Kevin's signature, his mum, Dorothy, says he made up his mind on the spot - even though it meant putting a promising cricketing career on hold.

Dorothy said of her son, who plays on the right wing: "This is a chance in a million for him and football has always been his first sport.

"He had played for Blackburn Rovers before and we were delighted when Newcastle United responded to our approach and took him on.

"It is a shame that he has had to move so far away from home but he seems to be enjoying it."

Kevin, 16, was already wooing the crowds after graduating from local cricket side Vernon Carus' cricket academy into the first team.

Dorothy added: "He loved playing for Vernon Carus and it is a shame he has to stop playing for them but this really is a chance in a million."

Peter Meloy, one of the coaches at Vernon Carus, who play in local Palace Shield League, said they were sorry to lose promising Kevin, but added: "We wish Kevin all the luck in the world.

"He is a very talented youngster who now has the chance to fulfil his huge potential."

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