A FATHER-OF-FOUR from Penarth has been included in the New Year Honours list for his work in cricket coaching and development.

Mark Frost, 57, was awarded a British Empire Medal, which recognises acts of extraordinary civil or military service.

He was included on the New Year Honours list for overseeing grassroots cricket development across Wales.

Mr Frost is a former professional cricketer who previously played for Surrey and Glamorgan.

He joined Glamorgan in 1990 and played alongside Sir Viv Richards.

He said: “I found out that I had been included on the list by a letter from the Cabinet Office. I was amazed.

"At first, I thought my friends and children had pranked me.

“I feel really proud to have been accepted and somewhat humbled by all of this.

"I don’t know who nominated me yet."

Mr Frost worked for the Cricket Board of Wales as director of cricket for six years, and is currently in a joint role between Cricket Wales and Glamorgan.

He said: "I oversee all grassroots cricket development across Wales in the recreational and professional game.

“I’ve been proud to be part of some very successful work in growing the game especially for little ones and encouraging more women and girls to play.

“I think I have received recognition for my voluntary work at Penarth Cricket Club where I’ve been involved in coaching juniors for 14 years.

"In this time, I have also been the chair of the junior section of our club.

“It’s also been pleasing to see a group of women take up softball cricket at the recreation fields this year which I hope we can grow in years to come."

He said he was particularly keen to encouraging young people to engage with sport.

"It helps children to develop their physical motor skills, teaches them to cooperate with each other and most importantly offers so much fun as an activity for life," he said.

“I would recommend volunteering in any walk of life as it helps you connect with people.

"Even if you’ve had a difficult week you always know you’ve helped someone in your local community.”

Mr Frost has previously worked for Sport Wales to increase sporting participation across the country.