Freddie Flintoff's Field of Dreams: finale airs to rave reviews as the star watches it with the boys in Penwortham

For the past three weeks, viewers have been kept entertained as the sporting legend created a cricket team from scratch with at first reluctant Preston teenagers.

In the final episode, which aired yesterday, Freddie had to galvanise his new cricket team to take on an elite private school, and what ensued was a finale full of laughs and tears.

Last night, Freddie watched the final episode with the boys themselves at Vernon-Carus Sports Club in Penwortham, alongside South Ribble Labour and other local residents.

Freddie tweeted: “Watched “field of dreams “ with the lads tonight they are amazing , Thanks for watching and supporting us”

Leader of South Ribble Council and Labour Councillor for Bamber Bridge (West), Cllr Paul Foster, told the Post: “We have been delighted to work closely with Freddie, Vernon's and the BBC in the production of this series, it has been an absolute joy to experience the brilliant outcomes for our local communities. Vernon Carus is now thriving along with the young people we reached out too and supported. At times it was humbling, at times it was joy, but always it was great to be party to a project that was delivered so much to those who needed it the most. We are really looking forward to the future and continuing the wonderful work."

The show received a welcome reception by the wider public too, who took to social media to sing their praises.

Ed Bazeley: “Just finished Freddie Flintoff's Field of Dreams. Fantastic programme. Giving opportunity to those who may not have otherwise had it. The power of cricket and sport in general”

Debra Allcock Tyler: “A wonderful, inspiring, moving, engaging, eye-opening programme. I know I’m biased because I love cricket, but even if you’re not a cricket fan I cannot believe anyone wouldn’t be moved by it & feel a little bit of the magic of cricket.”

Wendy Cording: “Freddie Flintoff’s “Field of Dreams” has been such a heart warming series! If ever you needed to see how relationships make a difference - this is it."

Alex Pryke: “Freddie Flintoff's Field of Dreams. The iPlayer. Really moving tele. Don't have to like cricket. Flintoff's a good lad. Get involved. You're welcome.”

Callum Feeney: “Not enjoyed a bit of TV like that in a long time! Giving young people opportunities and watching them thrive”

Michael Lane: “Just watched Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams. Absolutely brilliant! Giving kids a chance in life & #cricket”

David Bowers: “I think Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams might just be my favourite documentary in years.”

Andrew McInnes: “Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams is just terrific TV - and I hope it is catalysing for cricket!”

Kerry H: “If anyone hasn’t watched Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams, then you absolutely need to. Just brilliant. Yes it’s about Cricket, but not really, it’s about so much more. Loved those lads, what a difference it made to their lives.”

If you missed the series, you can still catch it now on BBC Iplayer.