Derrick Taylor likes putting his best foot forward - but his shoes don't.

Since the start of the season, Derrick has split three pairs and been forced to bowl wearing only his socks.in some matches The Plumpton fast bowler is now trying to find specially strong shoes to withstand his bowling action.

Derrick, 31, explained: "When my left foot hits the ground my heel goes to the right and that area of my shoe takes a pounding.

"One shoe split in our opening game of the season against Horsted Keynes and since then another two have completely ripped.

"In one match at Colemans Hatch, I ended up wearing just one shoe, on my left foot, and that ended up splitting so I finished the game fielding and bowling ten overs in just my socks."

That raised some puzzled looks from his team-mates, opposing batsmen and umpires.

Team-mate Paul Brinkhurst said: "I think Derrick bowls a better line and length in socks. Perhaps he shouldn't bother wearing shoes."

But Derrick will not change his action. It is one that has served him well and old habits die hard.

"I think some extra strong shoes can be made to cope with the pressure," said Derrick. "It's not my bowling action that is the problem, it's my shoes."

Has anyone had worse luck with shoes than Derrick in Sussex?

Let Justin know on 01273 544581.