Troughton turns illustrator for new book

Jim Troughton was perhaps never considered an artist as a batsman but he is now reaching for his easel to illustrate a new children's book. Troughton, who captained Warwickshire to the 2012 County Championship, has worked on The Legend of Morvidus, The Bear the bat and the Ragged Staff.

All royalties Troughton, now Warwickshire fielding coach, receives from the book, written by local author Rachael Wong with a foreword by Ian Bell, will be donated to the Warwickshire Cricket Board, who support youth cricket across the county.

Morvidus was the ancient Lord of Warwickshire and King of Britain, whose bear and ragged staff badge was adopted by Warwickshire.

"Warwickshire has been a huge part of my life and the children who read The Legend of Morvidus will understand exactly why it is such as special club to so many of us," Troughton, said. "Getting involved in the illustrations of the book has been fantastic and hopefully its publication will not only build a greater bond between youngsters and the club, but also encourage many to get involved in cricket."

Wong added: "Jim has put an enormous amount of time and effort to produce these wonderful illustrations and it has been great to work with him on this project, which will appeal to cricket fans of all ages and hopefully provide more cricketing opportunities for youngsters.

"The book is based on how a young boy finds the strength to overcome his nerves ahead of his first cricket match. However, after finding out more about the bravery shown Morvidus, he goes on to excel."