THE final event of the season for the Walkham Valley Cricket Club was a dinner and presentation evening at the Peter Tavy Inn. After a first class meal, club chairman John Berry said a few words about what had been the busiest season in the short history of the club, with 24 fixtures out of a possible 32 having been completed. Of those, the club had won 11, with 4 others going to the wire, only to be lost in the final over. Team membership was stable, with 28 players representing the club during the season. New members, from both ends of the age spectrum, had made valuable contributions to the success of the club, and it had been encouraging to see youngsters of the calibre of 11 year old Mark Partington-Smith make an impact. The Schools? Kwik Cricket festival had been an even greater success this year with more small schools participating. Thanks for their invaluable assistance in that success was expressed to Mike Dobson, Sandy Ralph and Ken Kay. Thanks were also expressed to the Walkhampton Inn for the kind hospitality which had been extended during the year, and in particular for the excellent post match meals provided by Elaine. Once again the Flower Show fixture, the church fundraiser and the visit of the Robin Hood CC from Sherwood had proved how much the village Memorial Hall field continues to be such a popular venue for all visiting teams, whilst the square itself has held up well in such a busy season. Skipper Sandy Ralph then presented the prizes to this season?s worthies. Best batsman with his outstanding clean hitting was Chris Spreadbury. James Vincent?s bowling, difficult to get hold of in any conditions, won him the accolade of best bowler. Kevin Baxter?s improvements behind the wicket earned him the best fielder award, and son Tim deservedly picked up the title of most improved player for his all round contributions. Simon Ward, in his first season for the club, also snapped up an award ? that of the Golden Duck ? for his kindness to scorers. Clubman of the Year went to John Berry. The players? player of the year was a popular one as James Hills picked up the trophy, having scored a fifty and taken a ?five for? during the season in addition to his athletic fielding. Members were reminded that the club annual meeting this year would be held at the Walkhampton Inn on Tuesday, November 29, beginning at 7.30pm.
