The runs flowed at Watford Town Cricket Club this afternoon as a team of police officers took on a community 11.

Now in its fourth year, the annual goodwill match, sponsored by Crimestoppers, is used to bring the police and community closer together.

After a hard-fought 20 overs-a-side contest the game, played in a friendly spirit throughout, ended in a tense draw, with both sides making 133 runs.

PC Irfan Ishaq, who organises the game, said: “Most people only come into contact with the police when they are victims of crime.

Sport – and cricket in particular – is a great way to bring us together and break down some barriers.

“Both sides wanted to win but these games are always played in a very good spirit.”

Assistant Chief Constable Chris Miller, who opened the batting for the police side, added: “It was a very exciting game but I think a draw was a very fair result.

“But it really wasn’t not about the result, it was about everybody coming together to have fun.”