ILMINSTER cricketer Sam Spurway has been awarded a professional two-year contract for Somerset County Cricket Club, which starts in 2006.

Sam, who lives at Ladymeade, signed up in the presence of director of cricket Brian Rose and 2nd XI coach Jason Kerr on Monday.

A delighted Sam, 18, told the News: "It is a childhood dream. I have supported Somerset all my life and am delighted to be part of the Somerset staff."