North West umpire Charlie McElwee is set to realise a long standing dream later this month when he takes charge of the MCC v Ireland “A” game which marks the beginning of competitive action in the 2012 season.

The Limavady man has scaled the heights of his profession over the past number of years and has officiated all over the world, however this will be his first time to stand at “the home of cricket”.

 Speaking after hearing of his appointment the Elite Panel member said the game would be the “thrill of a lifetime”. “I have been lucky enough to have worked with some of the best umpires in the game and to have visited so many countries but this means as much as anything I have done in the past.

"I have been to Lords for training courses but have never had the opportunity to stand in the middle and I am really looking forward to the experience”. As yet it is unclear who the North West man will be paired with for the one day match but that will matter little to Charlie for now.

His colleagues in the North West and beyond will no doubt send their congratulations and best wishes on another major appointment.