YARMOUTH is probably the last place in the world one would expect to see the ICC Cricket World Cup, but pundit and former England spinner Graeme Swann paid an impromptu visit to the Isle of Wight with the trophy to promote this summer's competition — and the sport by having fun with cricket-loving youngsters.

Isle of Wight County Press:

Ex-England cricketer Graeme Swann behind the stumps in a fun game with Island children on The Green, Yarmouth, last Friday.

As part of the Cricket World Cup Schools Programme, an initiative to boost cricket participation and drive the long-term growth of the game at grass roots level, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) are touring with the ICC Cricket World Cup to communities nationwide to inspire and engage one million young people, aged from toddlers to 12 years.

Isle of Wight County Press:

Graeme Swann with an Island youngster in Yarmouth.

Their latest visit was to Yarmouth on Friday, where Ashes-winning former England star Swann and cricket enthusiast Felix White, of indie band The Maccabees, met with ten lucky Island youngsters to play cricket with them and let them see the iconic cricket trophy close up.

The programme is being run in conjunction with the ECB's Chance to Shine initiative for children to learn and play cricket.

Isle of Wight County Press:

Graeme Swann, with ball, about to show one girl why he was an England crowd favourite.

After doing some publicity shots and filming for a new ECB video due for release next month on Yarmouth Pier, the group, with the trophy, made their way to The Green, where they enjoyed a fun game — watched by no more than the usual dog walkers in the area.

Swann said: “I am delighted to play a part in inspiring a new generation of fans and players through this great tournament.

Isle of Wight County Press:

Graeme Swann on wicketkeeping duty in Yarmouth.

“Hosting a World Cup in England and Wales presents a unique opportunity to use the impact of the tournament to grow the game at grassroots level and give schools the opportunity to be part of the special atmosphere a World Cup brings.

“I played in the 2011 World Cup and it is the biggest stage in cricket, with the world’s eyes on you.

Isle of Wight County Press:

"Now, as a fan, I find myself excited by what the Cricket World Cup promises to deliver for the sport this year.”