Cricketer Colin Milburn's story captured in new play

Colin Milburn. Credit: PA

The story of cricketing hero Colin Milburn from County Durham is to take centre stage.

A former England batting star, he's the subject of a new play which is on a tour of county cricket clubs, including Durham's ground at Chester-Le-Street this Friday at 7:30pm.

Colin Milburn was described as a big-hitting, larger than life character.

His lifestyle was far removed from the professional game today. His home county, Durham, was Milburn's first minor county side. He was born in Burnopfield - and the village is also his final resting place. Hundreds attended his funeral in 1990, with his friend Ian Botham among the pallbearers.

Colin Milburn. Credit: PA

Colin Milburn's story has been brought to the stage by playwright and ex county player James Graham-Brown. It's part a drive by the players union, the Professional Cricketers' Association, to increase awareness of mental health and player welfare.

Watch a preview of the performance here: