FORMER Zimbabwe Test cricketer Henry Olonga helped Charlbury's cricket club to raise more than £1,000 towards its new pavilion fund.

The 32-year-old entertained more than 150 people at St Mary's Church, with anecdotes from his playing days and a medley of songs.

The fast bowler is forging a new career as a singer.

He also spoke about his stand against "the death of democracy" in Zimbabwe under President Robert Mugabe, when in 2003 he wore a black armband during a World Cup cricket match.

He was forced to flee the country and now lives in England, playing occasionally for the all-star Lashings team.

The club needs to raise about £250,000 for a new pavilion after last summer's floods, when the swollen River Evenlode engulfed the cricket ground and buildings. So far £110,000 has been raised.