CRICKET fans were bowled over when the World Cup came to Taunton in June 2019.

The only traffic on town centre routes on Saturday and Sunday, June 8 and 9, came in the form of thousands of people who turned out to enjoy on-street activities including bowling, batting, fielding and catching challenges.

A special Fan Zone was set up in Castle Green, giving fans the chance to take in World Cup matches on a giant screen while enjoying a drink from the bar and food from various stalls - all while reclining in a raft of giant deckchairs provided.

On June 8, Saturday afternoon, thousands of fans also got to enjoy the real thing, as Afghanistan took on New Zealand at the County Ground. There was also live music, entertainment, refreshments and more for all ages.

On June 17 2019 the Taunton crowd witnessed the second-highest Cricket World Cup run chase of all time as Bangladesh cruised past a surprisingly lacklustre West Indies in the last of the town's three tournament matches.

Shakib Al Hasan struck a magnificent unbeaten 124, with Liton Das making 94 not out, as the Tigers - backed by a jubilant support - made light work of a target of 322 which Windies skipper Jason Holder admitted was "40 or 50 short."

Bangladesh rode their luck at times - a number of top edges fell safely between fielders - but they were helped by a West Indies team who all but threw the towel in as the game progressed.

The Bangladesh fans, meanwhile, were dancing in the stands almost throughout the reply and created a brilliant atmosphere.

They, along with Afghanistan and Pakistan supporters in their respective matches, were a joy to behold in Taunton over the nine days and really added verve and noise to the County Ground stands.

The Gazette reported that Taunton had shown itself capable of hosting international cricket in these three matches and the occasions will live long in the memory of those who have savoured them.