NEW PLAYERS 2010

Any new junior/senior players wanting to join Darwen for the 2010 season please contact Gary Jackson on 07745450176 or e-mail gary.jackson@woodall-nicholson.co.uk. We have four senior teams who play on a Saturday and one team on a Sunday. We also run junior teams at Under 9’s/11’s/13’s,15’s and 17’s

UMPIRES REQUIRED 2010

We are looking for qualified umpires to umpire our 3rd & 4th team in the Southport & District League on Saturdays as well as one for our Sunday team in the Palace Shield League

APRIL 10TH /11TH PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY OPPONENTS REQUIRED

We are looking for a pre season friendly game on Saturday 10th April or Sunday 11th April. The fixture will have to be played away as our ground is currently being repaired.

SPORTSCAMP 2010

Monday 16th August to Friday 20th August 2010 sees the return of the annual Sportscamp. Book early to avoid disappointment. This years details can be downloaded by clicking on the links below.

Click here for the chairman's Sportscamp Details

Click here for the Registration Form

Click here for the Breakfast Club

SPONSOR A BENCH 2010

The club intends extending the new wooden bench seating to the remainder of the ground for the start of next season. We therefore are seeking sponsorship from members and club supporters . The cost is £130 for a 12ft and £95 for a 6ft bench both with brass plaques with wording to recognise sponsorship or in memory of a love one.

Please contact Geoff Thompson on mobile No 07774273333 for further details.

ECB NATIONAL KNOCKOUT DRAW

This year we have been draw at home to Neston in the National Knockout on Sunday 16th May. To view the full draw click here ECB Full Draw

SNOW JOKE FOR DANNY

Danny Tighe has been at it again - skiving off work to bring you some picturesque wintry photos from Darwen CC! He even built a 'lifelike' snowman but unfortunately he couldn't find a brain for it so he named it Horsey!

THE YAK SELECTED FOR LANCASHIRE ACADEMY

Young first team bowler Yakub Bhamji has been selected to join the Lancashire Academy. This is a fantastic achievement for the Yak and we wish him all the best.

Click here for the full story from the LCB. Please be warned they cannot spell!

The Yak In Action

WINTER NETS 2010 - PLECKGATE

Darwen CC Winter Nets will take place at Pleckgate High School on Tuesday's for 6 weeks from Feb 23rd to March 30th inclusive (7-9pm). A chance to work on your technique before the season starts. For some they will need to start a lot earlier in front of the mirror like Simon Painter.

NEW CLUB CONSTITUTION

Click here for the New Constitution document

CHEAP CRICKET GEAR - STUART SURRIDGE

Danny Tighe must have shares in Surridge as he saw these offers and mentioned that they may be worth putting on the web. Cheers Tiger!

AGM 2009

The DCC AGM will be held on Monday 30th November 2009. Please find attached the relevant documents to make it an enjoyable evening.

Click here for the 2009 Chairman's Report

Click here for the Proposed Club Meeting Structure document

Click here for the Amended Constitution document

Click here for the 2009 Captains reports

Click here for the Club Accounts

NEW PROFESSIONAL FOR 2010

Darwen Cricket Club are pleased to announce that Mohammed Zaman Khan has signed as professional for the 2010 season. Zimmy has deputised as sub pro on a couple of occasions and was professional at Crompton CC last season where he scored over 1100 runs and took 65 wickets.

ZIMMY

STAN WESTALL

Stan Westall died in October 2009 aged 78. A life member and former club treasurer he captained Darwen 2nd XI and also represented the first team on many occasions. An opening batsman, he scored 1,094 runs at 10.73 at first team level and was a consistent runs scorer for the second team. He topped the league’s division two averages in 1957, scoring 461 runs at 46.10. he played for Darwen until the early 1970s and for many years he ran a newsagents shop in the town. His other claim to fame was that he was a member of Darwen side bowled out for the lowest total in Northern League history, 6 by St Annes in 1966.

TREASURE HUNT

The annual Treasure Hunt which took place on October 25th was won in controversial circumstances by Jordan and Chris Clarke along the their respective WAGS.

The Hunt was devised and organised by the winners' parents Geoff and Marilyn. Rumours are abound that a 'break-in' took place in Geoff's study at their Revidge residence and the answers were stolen. The police were never told according to PC Emery, but at the crime scene bottles of hair dye, girls clothing worn by boys and a Leeds Student Union card were allegedly found!
Thanks to Marilyn and Geoff for their efforts and for those who joined in. The full results are listed below - last position says a lot I believe, the old and new captains - roll on 2010

JUNIOR PRESENTATION 2009

The Junior Presentation Evening will be held in the clubhouse on Friday 16th October from 7.30pm onwards. All players welcome from U/15’s, 13’s, 11’s and 9’s.

The evening will consist of individual awards for each age group and team awards for success in cup competitions.

TREASURE HUNT

On Sunday October 25th the annual Treasure Hunt will take place. Entry is £10 per car. So come and join our very own Anneka Rice, Kenneth Kendall and Wincey Willis as we travel on a tour round Lancashire.

Meet at the club at 1015 for coffee/tea and toast. Cars to set off in five minute intervals from 1030. Geoff Clarke pictured below has put a lot of time and effort into this so please give him the support he deserves.

DARWEN CC FIRST XI TROPHY 2009

Captain Cook crowned off the season with silverware in his back pocket, as we were given the league Fair Play Award 2009. Voted for by umpires over the season . They deemed us the most sporting - which is hard to disagree with really as we set low totals for the opposition to chase and opted to send down potato pie bowling for most of the year!

DARWEN CC WINTER SQUASH LADDER 2009 / 10 RULES

I wonder why Lobo sent this for the web??

Click here to look at the latest results Results 2009


Click here to look at the league rules Squash Rules 2009

ALEX DAVIES NAMED LANCASHIRE CRICKET BOARD PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Click here for more details

DARWEN LEGEND DAVE BONNER RETIRES FROM CRICKET

Dave with the Northern League Trophy in 1987

The greatest ever Darwen bowler has decided to call time on a truly wonderful career. A career that spanned no less than 49 years. Dave made his debut against the old rivals of Chorley in 1960 on Birch Hall, the visitors were bowled out for a mere 39 on flat deck at the home of cricket. We obviously knocked them off in relative comfort with 7 wickets down. Dave's contribution - 2 not out batting at number eight - under the guidance of then pro Allan Bolton.

His last game was against Blackpool at home (not away, everyone knows DB never played Blackpool away as it was too flat a track at the time!) for the Second XI and his last contribution was a wicket with his final delivery as fate conspired it was caught Greg Bonner (no.2 son) bowled Dave Bonner.

In between this first and last match there has been some amazing stats and performances and he has left some long standing memories for all those who have had the privilege of playing in the same team. A few of which are listed below with some comments from some team mates from over the years.

Dave's first three seasons in the First XI saw him bowl only 29 overs and take 7 wickets - an era when you had to earn the right to be in the team and opportunities were few and far between for up and coming youngsters. When his First XI career ended in 1998 he had an amazing 820 wickets to his name and over 5600 runs. After retiring from the First XI, he continued to perform in the Seconds as his passion for the game never died. His Second XI stats pay testimant to this, 378 wickets and 1827 runs. So Dave is not only the best First XI bowler ever he is also the best Second XI bowler!

His Darwen career was briefly interrupted with two spells as professional at Edgworth and Cherry Tree. Both spells lasted three years at each club and an incredible 476 wickets and 3000 runs later he came home to his beloved Birch Hall. During his career he had to put with .. sorry play in the same team as all sorts of different characters. A few of them have found the time to write some thoughts down about Dave.

Paul Rodden says:

As a 15 year old playing in my first season for the first team I remmber Darwen had drawn St. Annes in the cup at St Annes. The previous day we had also played St Annes and watched one of the greats in cricket, Rohan Khani, score a flawless 123.It was my turn to bowl, Dave was as Captain was standing near me at mid-off.He talked me through my stint of 10 overs. I was lucky enough to have him beside me. Obviously he wanted to help me. Khani and St Annes had scored heavily in the league fixture the day before. During my spell I had 4 wickets and the ball was swinging. He could detect that I wanted the 5th but was more concerned about this than focussing on the job in hand. He said, "Don't worry Paul, it will come, just keep bowling." I did and it did. My first five wickets in the first team. A voice of experience made the day.

The team won and Dave had contributed in many more ways to the win that just his now legendary bowling.

Chris Rigby says:

Dave was the earliest and probably greatest influence on my cricket as from about the age of 11 he and Richard Friend would ferry us to the indoor nets at Peel Park in Accrington throughout the winter months for coaching. When for the first time an Under 15s and then an Under 13’s league was set up, Dave was the coach of both of our teams. The Under 13’s featured Graham, Gary, Pete Forrest, Beezer, Slats, Steven (Weasel) Walmsley (son of Peter, another Darwen bowling legend) and another lad called Andrew Kay I think. We reached the semi-final only to be blown away one stop short of OT by a Clifton side with a lad called Moffat bowling faster than anything I had experienced at that age and Chris Scott (later of Lancs and Durham) keeping wicket stood up...impressive. The fact that we were beaten by a better side didn’t save us from an almighty DB bollocking!

An image of Dave that always makes me chuckle is that he could never resist John Farrer’s baiting and it always quickly reached the United Nations-level of exchange with “F--k off Farrer!” “F--k off Bonner!” . (Roland Horridge could be substituted in here for Farrer as well). Another classic was when he was stomping off towards the bar and third man after a (rare) expensive over. I was keeping and got down that end quickly to try to bolster his spirits. He was chuntering about Simon (captain for the day) not setting the field right. My recommendation that he have a word directly with Simon was met with “Oh go and stick your head down the toilet Chris”.

Best memory...spending the whole summer of 1987 at mid-off both ends watching Dave and Suresh Keshwalla work their way through all the Northern League opposition and then into a play-off to win the title. With Enti at short leg it was a privilege to make up the numbers.

I haven’t done any justice to his superb batting contributions – no wonder he was a successful pro – countless times he saw us through to win in a run chase. But one thing that always comes through to me when I think of Dave is how much he cares – he cares about winning, doing his best, that others do their best, that they have a chance to fulfil their potential, and he cares very deeply about Darwen Cricket Club, and this rubbed off on me. Oh that he could be replicated but I fear not.

Andy Rigby says:

When Dave turned to take his sweater for the last time, it is a safe bet that he was still harbouring the same malicious thoughts towards that most despicable of breeds- batsmen of any and every type- which had kept the competitive fires burning throughout his illustrious career. Yes it is a cliché but there can be little doubt that an era had finally ended.

It is worthwhile reflecting just what an era Dave’s career has spanned. A debut in senior cricket in 1964 came at a time of two television channels (both black and white), when Beatlemania and 1 day cricket were but twelve months old and Morecambe not Marbella was as far as most Darreners ventured for their hols as the town shut down for two weeks in July.

But not only is it a link with an era almost as remote to younger players as the Stone Age, but his bowling style is a link to a largely forgotten,typically English breed- the medium fast rather than fast medium seamer-whose relentless, nagging accuracy meant that only the most talented could prevail for long or on a regular basis. Every county had one and if you have the time look up the career stats for the likes of Derek Shackleton of Hampshire and Tom Cartwright of Warwickshire and see not only how many wickets they took but how many overs they bowled.

Their careers give another clue to Dave’s outstanding career over such a long time. You need to stay fit to amass such figures and the key is to be “bowling fit”, based around a classical, repeatable bowling action allied to the archetypal broad beamed build which meant that greyhound like speed around the outfield was never an option but was perfect for the task in hand, that of nagging the batsman to distraction and their inevitable demise.

In fact it is not stretching a point too far to liken Dave to a better upholstered Glen Mcgrath-the same niggardly hatred of conceding runs, the same ingrained sense of injustice as another desperate air shot is the best the feeble specimen can come up with. A shake of the head, a caustic comment as to style, competence or parenthood before hitching up his trousers and stomping back to his mark to resume a contest as unequal as the fly facing the spider.

Had pitch maps existed, the 8 foot ”good length” could have been shortened considerably and a further comparison with Glen McGrath is that both rarely bowled the “pitch leg, hit off” classic, working instead on the premise that a bat which is four or so inches wide only requires the minimum of movement if the edge is to be found. Playing on –and denying-the aggressive instincts of most batsmen was, and always will be, the key.

The above is simply the briefest of sketches of Dave’s ability with the ball which should not be allowed to overshadow a sustained contribution with the bat in his own inimitable style. How many mid and late innings run chases have been boosted by a series of clouts down the ground or bludgeons over cow corner?

Having established himself in the First Team in 1967 it was inevitable that other clubs would soon recognise the value such a formidable competitor with bat and ball could offer, an opinion borne out by the service he gave to both Edgworth and Cherry Tree during the 1970s. However, Birch Hall was never far from his thoughts and his contribution during this time in terms of promoting the newly introduced pairs cricket for Under 13s saw the club appear at Old Trafford in 1974.

His return made the assumption of the captaincy in 1981 inevitable and it was only to be expected that he would give it the maximum at a time when the job was a more all consuming one than now at the same time as he was helping bring up a young family. Frustration at the performance of others occasionally spilled over but this was but a reflection of Dave’s expectations of similar high standards which others sometimes struggled to meet.

It may well be coincidental but Dave’s most potent period for the club probably occurred once he was free to concentrate more on his own game and when partnered by an opening partner of the calibre of Suresh Keshwalla, a combination which left opposing batsmen with little relief. A Cup Final in 1986 followed by a title win in 1987 give an indication of the grip they imposed.

Nobody stays at the top for ever and it is always a test as to how sportsmen of all types react as they realise that even they can’t hold off the march of time indefinitely. Dave has continued to give yeoman service to the club and again, it should not be forgotten that the constant striving for improvement on the field was also reflected in the manner in which he argued his case in a variety of posts and countless committee meetings down the years.

Everyone has their own stories or memories of Dave and I feel sure that they will be told and re told with new relish now the curtain has come down. A genial off field demeanour is conclusive proof that “white line fever” is a condition which exists and indeed is essential if any kind of sporting career is to be carved out. It seems inevitable that someone born within a hefty mow of the two Birch Halls would grow up with the club’s welfare at heart and I am sure that if you cut open his arm you would find Darwen C.C. running through it like a stick of Blackpool rock.

Darwen’s greatest ever bowler is not stretching a point. Think not only of the wickets Dave took himself but those taken by bowlers at the other end. Many analyses benefitted from the opportunity seized so eagerly by desperate batsmen, relieved to escape from the suffocating grip imposed at one end before perishing at the other. It seems certain that Dave will continue to support the club in many ways and if he feels tempted to say “When I played….. “ firstly ascertain just which decade he is talking about and then indulge him. After all it is unlikely we will see his like again!

Thanks to The Rods, Riggers and Riggers (snr) for their thoughts.

And so the 'Frog' t-shirt has been worn for the last time as Dave has ended his outstanding career. His passion for the game and will to win will live with anyone who has been luck enough to play in the same team.

Well played DB!

DARWEN CRICKET CLUB RAFFLE WINNERS 2009

The winners of the Darwen Cricket Club Raffle were announced on Saturday Septmeber 12th.The winners were as follows:

Prize	Ticket Number	Winners
1 - £100 Cash	1080	Paul Thompson
2 - Signed Cricket Bat - Lancs players	1237	Greg Lawrenson
3 - A Family Ticket - Darwen CC	0721	Ian Bateson
4 - Signed Picture - Sergio Garcia	1430	N Hodge
5 - Signed Cricket Bat - Glenn Chapple	1309	B Skelton
6 - Signed Drawing of Andrew Flintoff	1247	A Firth
7 - £40 Meal Voucher - Ocean Palace	1038	L Thompson
8 - McDonalds Meal for 5	0984	Nathan Jackson
9 - Bottle of Cointreau	0736	D Faye
10 - Bottle of Cockburns Port	1103	M Burke
11 - Designer Jewellery	0876	Jackie
12 - Flowers from Pick of the Bunch	0972	S Walsh
13 - Box of Belgium Biscuits	0806	M Cordingley

THE AWARDS CEREMONY

The winners of the Darwen Cricket Awards were announced last night at the lavish Birch Hall Club. Hosted by Bill Ainslie the winners were as follows:

Team	Batting 2009	Bowling 2009	Fielding 2009
First Team	John Cordingley	Kameron Anwar	Jordan Clarke
Second Team	Bill Ainslie	Greg Lawrenson	Chris Wade
Third Team	Tony Beesley	Liam Holden	Zac Whalley
Fourth Team	Matt Faye	Harry Campbell	Darius Ainslie
Biggest Drinkers	Niall Burke	Scott Jackson	Matt Painter
Chairman's Award	Alex Davies
Under 21s	Alex Davies	Kameron Anwar

LEN WHITTAKER

Len Whittaker passed away on Saturday 5th September 2009. Len was 78 years old and amazingly had been a member of the club for 60 years! He took 193 wickets and scored over 1200 runs in the First XI. He played for all our teams for many years.

Our thoughts are with his family and friends.

ANNUAL DARWEN CRICKET CLUB DINNER

2010 sees the annual club dinner. This year hopefully there will not be any contenders for the worst comedian in history as the legendary Donald Banks has been recruited. Tickets are priced at £20

END OF SEASON CELEBRATION

The 2009 season comes to a close on Saturday September 12th. To celebrate the another year the annual 'End Of Season Do' will be in full force. This year the optional theme is one that everyone can join in with and probably will be without actually realising it. 'Bad Shirt' wear is the dress code so people like Mick Horsfield will have plenty of choice. The Black or Less Black or Navy Blue or Less Navy Blue Ben Sherman or maybe even a Billobonger!

The Raffle will be drawn - Prizes will be given - DJ Dave will be spinning the discs - Supper will be provided - Beer will be at happy hour prices (I made that bit up - but you can only dream!).

Please come and support your club.

Horsey, Already Dressed For the Occassion, Expects a Big Night

DARWEN CC WINTER SQUASH LADDER 2009 / 10

Anyone fancy a game of a squash over the winter and attempt to beat the current Darwen CC Squash Ladder Champion, Graham Ainslie, contact Chris Lowe (lowey21@hotmail.com or 0781 378 4706). If you get yourself a Beez Card it will also be free too.

You don't need to be any good as you can see by the current champion.

Cheers

Lowey

CHRIS LOWE'S GREAT NORTH RUN

First teamer Slowboat is running in the Great North Run at Newcastle in September. He is running to raise funds for Cancer Research. If you would like to donate some money to this worthwhile cause please contact Chris (lowey21@hotmail.com) on the email link. This is not the first time Chris has run, last year he posted an excellent time finishing just behind Sir Jimmy Saville, Bernie Clifton and his Ostrich and The Deep Sea Diver. He hopes to improve this year and will be running with Eric Pollard from Emmerdale and Ray Stubbs.

FIRST TEAM CRASH OUT OF FBS CUP

Darwen were edged out of the semi final against Netherfield in a close match at Birch Hall. Great knocks from Mark Emery and Chris Lowe meant that enough runs were posted on the board. Chris Clarke did his level best to turn the match our way with five wickets but the Cumbrians just crept over the line with 5 balls to go.

LOBO's DARWEN CRICKET CLUB BOWLS NIGHT – FRIDAY 21st AUGUST 2009

A note from Christopher Lobo.

I have organised the First ever Darwen Cricket Club Crown Green Bowling Competition, to be held on Friday the 21st of August on Olive Lane Bowling Green (home of former Lancashire bowls Champion Kenbo Lowe) starting at 5;50pm with the draw.

I would like to do the event in aid of Cancer Research, entry fee tbc, and also raise some money for club funds. So there will be an entry fee for the bowls and a raffle on the night.

The event is open to both senior and junior members (playing and non playing), family and friends of all ages. A night to get everyone together basically. The format of the evening tbc depending on interest / numbers - plan to be a doubles event with partners drawn out of a hat.

So please promote, get your wives / girlfriends / parents / children involved.

If your interested can you let me know numbers either by email or on the poster in the clubhouse.

The club are putting tea, coffee & biscuits but feel free to bring your own refreshments (pimms/rose/smooth etc).

Cheers,

Lowey

END OF SEASON RAFFLE DRAW – SATURDAY 12th SEPTEMBER 2009

Could all senior and junior players please hand their sold raffle tickets, to captains and team managers ASAP.

SUNDAY AUGUST 9TH

Darwen first team crashed to a last over victory in the semi-final of the Twenty20 Cup. Having been asked to bat first the boys could only muster 133 thanks in the main to Kammy with 40, unbelievably they did not bat all the 20 overs. Preston were struggling at 112 for 7 but managed to scramble home with 5 deliveries remaining.

Preston played hosts Netherfield in the final and thrashed them to become champions.

The fourths were also beaten in the final against Winstanley Park. Here are some action shots below thanks to Emma 'Latham' Allsop.

The Fourth Team losing finalists - Dad's Army meets Grange Hill

Gordy Waddicor shows how to use your front arm - after years of practise lifiting pints of Mild!

Perfect shot from Simon - look at the follow through - new unused pads Simon - they can't be yours!

Batey in perfect position for a ....

The 'Wildman of the Woods' Darius contemplates life

Reece asks the umpires whether there'll be blackcurrant Fruit Shoots at drinks

DARWEN CRICKET CLUB MERCHANDISE NOW AVAILABLE ON-LINE

Club merchandise can now be purchased directly from the Stuart Surridge website. This has been organised Fourth team stalwart Danny Tighe - nice one Tiger! Click here to take to you direct to the Darwen catalogue or goto the website www.surridgesport.com on type in Darwen in the search box.

SUNDAY AUGUST 9TH

This weekend sees a hive of activity involving all Darwen's four teams.

Firstly on Saturday the struggling First Team face a daunting trip to Netherfield. This is also the location for Twenty20 Finals day on the Sunday against Preston then Morecambe or Nethefield.

While the flourishing second team, having won three games in a row, will be looking to continue the charge to the top of the second division. In form 'Peter Pan' of the Northern league Gary Jackson will be looking to continue to build on his fine century at his favourite ground of Carnforth last weekend. Greg Lawro continues to pick up wickets and must be in the mind of the selectors for Tuesday's meeting.

The Thirds are at home to Mawdesely on Saturday in the league and on Sunday in the Pochin Cup semi Final.

The Fourth teams face to away trips to Moorgate on Saturday and then the Sandhurst Cup Final on Sunday at Winstanley Pk. Under the leadership of Steve 'The Don' Douglas the fourth team made up of mainly youngsters plus a couple of old codgers (Gordy and Batey) continue to perform admirably, with youngsters Faye and Campbell especially looking good for the future.

TWENTY 20 RESCHEDULED

Due to the bad weather todays Twent Finals day has been rescheduled to August 9th at Netherfield. Consequently the FBS Cup semi final at home against Netherfield will now take place on Sunday 16th August.

WIESA FAILS BUSH TRIAL

Professional David Wiese took on the North Face Mountain Bike Trail along with Chris Lowe and Lee Thompson and ended up a cropper. Minutes into the journey one of his stabilisers came off and the big South African went head first into the forest! Luckily his colleagues were immediately on the scene to offer assistance in the form of taking the photos below!! Rumour has it David was actually pushed into the bushes by Thommo after he suggested that it was time for Lee to spend some money on a round!

LEAGUE CUP UPDATE

A seagull has just done something a few people over the years have wanted. It has taken a crap on Stuart Hampson' head!! Having breakfast on the front before the St.Annes clash the bird saw what he thought was an ideal toilet. This is supposed to be lucky - will Hammo bowl us to victory? The answers will soon be known.

The answers are in and the seagull did bring good luck to Hammo as he was the pick of the bowlers in the St.Annes innings with three wickets. The stars of the show with the bat were professional David Wiese who made his second century of the weekend and Chris Lowe who hit 79 - this was actually 85 according to SlowBoat and was not his career best. This was 91 against his dad Ken on the bowling green in 2000.

A fantatstic result at the league leaders which sets up a home semi-final clash with Netherfield on Sunday August 9th.

TWENTY20 CUP UPDATE

Darwen booked their place in the Twenty20 finals day at Netherfield with an easy victory at Chorley. Professional David Wiese smashed 128 off 51 balls and Johnnyboy got 58. We will now play our semi-final at Netherfield against Preston on Sunday 26th July. The other 2 contenders are Morecambe and Netherfield.

SECONDS KICKED OUT OF LEAGUE CUP

The second team have been kicked out the cup due to fielding an ineligible player, Nathan Jackson, against Carnforth. After being resoundingly thrashed only a team with issues would resort to such a level to achieve a hollow victory. However it does raise a few issues which need clarity.

Firstly how can, when both the first and second team are playing at the same time, there be rules around team selection. Should we send our squads to the league to have them pick our teams? Are we purposely going to put our best players in the second team?

Secondly, should a player dropped for breaking club disciplinary reasons have been playing for any team?

Thirdly, whoever the person who scanned the Darwen team sheet and totted up the number of first team appearances should be thrown out of the league on the grounds of crossing the boundaries of cricket ethic.

ALEX DAVIES

Alex Davies hit his maiden Northern League century for the Second Team at Lancaster on Saturday June 20th. This will undoubtedly be the first of many.

Well done Alex not for the hundred but for running Horsey and Nathan out!!!

PACKIE'S A DAD AGAIN

Former Darwen captain and legend Graeme Parkinson has become a father again. Baby Alice Elizabeth weighed in at 6lb 1oz, 4 weeks early, at Stepping Hill Hospital Stockport on 7th May at 7.30am. Although 'Friends to the Stars' Graeme was teeing off with Bruce Forsythe at the time of the birth, he managed to make it a few hours later and luckily bumped into a very good friend of his Prince Philip, who was opening the new wing of the hospital. Phil was absolutely delighted to hear his news and so are we. Nice one Parkylad.

OUR PROFESSIONAL IS HERE

At 1pm on Tuesday 12th May David Wiese arrived at Manchester Airport before being whisked away to his Darwen abode. As a final twist in the saga when Chairman Bill when to meet him, he was promptly escorted from Terminal 2 as there was an emergency evacuation.

SUBSCRIPTIONS 2009 ARE DUE

£65 - Senior Players

£35 - Members

£20 - Ladies/OAP's

£35 - Students being Yr12/College/University

£30 - Secondary schools Yr7/Yr11

£25 - Primary schools

As an incentive for the present members, we are offering a £10 discount for each new member(s), that are subscribed to the 500 club.

To help keep our membership records up to date please download and complete the attached form. Click on the link and print off the membership document and follow the instructions.

Please hand your form and payment to Chairman Graham Ainslie or send to David Ainsworth, Membership Co-ordinator at 3 Prospect Avenue Darwen BB3 1JQ as soon as possible

Click here to open Membership Document 2009

DARWEN'S BILL ODDIE

Darwen Cricket Club yesterday unearthed a hidden talent. Danny Tighe, the fourth team stalwart, showed his hidden talent. Unknown to most people Tiger is actually an avid bird spotter. He spent most of yesterday with his anorak and binoculars scanning the skies around Birch Hall. His dream came true when a rare species of geese flew in all the way from Canada. Danny 'The Twitcher' as he is now known sent a photo of his beloved birds, the fact that actually managed to get a bird was a feat some people would not believe, so I have put the evidence below.

Nice one Danny!

SPORTSCAMP 2009

Monday 17th August to Friday 21th August 2009 sees the return of the annual Sportscamp.

Click here for the chairman's Sportscamp Details

Click here for the Registration Form

CRICKETFORCE 2009

Once again the club will be embarking on the now annual grounds improvement process. These days only prove successful if we have some able bodied workers to carry out the necessary tasks to keep the club moving forward. If you can spare anytime whatsoever please come down and help out.

This year there are 2 dates for your diary Sunday 19th April and Sunday May 3rd from 1000ish onwards - Rumour has it the first drink after a hard days graft is on the new chairman!

SCORERS REQUIRED

Students - Stattos - Supporters - People Who Want an Easy £20 - our club needs you!!

There are currently 4 vacancies available for anyone who would like to be a scorer at the club. Please contact Gary Jackson on 01254 760461 or Click here to Email

TWENTY20 FIXTURES 2009

We will be having the usual round-robin of Twenty20 matches as listed below.

Leyland at Home on Friday 26th June and Away on Tuesday 23rd June

Chorley Home on Friday 19th June and Away on Friday 3rd July

RIGGERS ANNUAL PLANT SALE

Andrew Rigby is back with his yearly plant sale for one day only (and week after if any left!). Sunday 3rd May at the club from 930-1200 to raise money for the junior section.

Please come down and support Andrew and the Juniors.

PAUL RODDEN - THE AUTHOR

Darwen Cricket Club's all time Shandy Drinking Champion has written a book. A little introduction of its contents from ex-Darwen captain Paul Rodden is noted below.


I have coauthored a fabulous book with these world famous men,

Jack Canfield - Co-author of "Chicken Soup for the Soul" series of books and The Secret and selling over 100 million books worldwide.

Brian Tracy - The No 1 Business Consultant in the USA and author of 45 books.

Jack Zufelt - No 1 Best Selling Author and one of the most sought after speakers in the world for corporate events.

As a friend I want you to be inspired by this book.

The DNA of Success Stories will touch your heart,inspire you to action and give you principles to live by that can help you achieve your heart's desires!

Get up for it and order one today

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL!

The DNA Of Success Stories is due out next month.

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FRIENDLIES 2009

The 2009 season kicks off on Sunday 5th April with an away trip to the seaside. Always nice to hear the sound of the trams! We are playing South Shore CC.

A week later we are to host Farnworth on Sunday 12th April at Birch Hall with a 1330 start.

KEN SNELLGROVE

Former Darwen professional Ken Snellgrove passed away on Sunday 8th March. Ken was professional at the club for 2 years in 1984 and 1985. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.

CUP DRAWS 2009

This year's ECB National Knockout draw has given us an away tie against Sefton Park of the Liverpool Competition 2nd tier on Sunday 3rd May. The winners will play either Farnworth Social Circle or Hyde on Sunday 24th May.

The Furness Building Society gives us a home tie against Carnforth on Sunday 7th June, with the winners playing St.Annes or Lancaster.

500 CLUB

INTRODUCE A FRIEND TO DARWEN CRICKET CLUB 500 CLUB AND GAIN A £10 REDUCTION OFF YOUR SUBS FOR 2009

As you might be aware the club runs a monthly lottery under the above name, this is a vital fund raising activity which enables the club to continue to develop not only our facilities but also help to maintain and improve our two cricket grounds. The continual development of the non playing side of the club will enable Darwen cricket club still to be a leading club in years to come.

As you can see it is vital that not only do we maintain the level of support for the lottery but we do in fact increase our numbers.

The cost of the lottery is £48 per year. This can be paid either in one instalment of £48 in advance or by standing order of £4 each month. We distribute 50 % of the takings in prize money and attached you will find a breakdown of how the prize money is distributed monthly.

I am writing to all playing members who to help us to recruit new members to our 500 club with the added attraction of £10 off your subs when you do so.

I will forward a standing order form for the ones who wish to pay monthly, which is clearly marked with a cross were they need to input the information which we require to pass onto our bank, once you have notified me of the details of the new member (name and address) However if they wish to pay annually then please send a cheque made payable to Friends of Darwen Cricket Club to the address below.

One of the features I have introduced is to notify the winning numbers by email, so if you have an email address then please can you send that to me.

Once I have received either your cheque or your standing order details then I will notify you of the number you have been allocated and the first payment has been received then I will notify the subscription secretary to deduct £10 off your sub money.

If you require any further information please feel free to contact me. I look forward to receiving your favourable reply.

Yours Faithfully,

David Bonner

21 Riverlea Gardens
Clitheroe
Lancs
BB7 1QQ
Email davebonner@talktalk.net

INTRODUCE A FRIEND TO BECOME A MEMBER AND HELP OUR CLUB TO DEVELOP

Darwen Cricket Club 500 Club prize fund

Each month we pay out the following prizes

1 prize of £150
1 prize of £50
1 prize of £40
4 prizes of £25

Total prize money paid out monthly £340

We also pay out extra prizes of £200 Easter, £200 July Holiday and £500 Christmas

Our total prize money paid out over 12 months is £4980

This will obviously increase as the membership increases.

Mrs Joan Parkinson

A member of Darwen Cricket Club for over 35 years, Joan joined along with her husband Brian to give support to their son Graeme, who went onto be 1st XI wicketkeeper and club captain, she died peacefully on the 18th January 2009 in the East Lancashire Hospice age 73.

She was for many years Chairperson of the Social/Commercial Committee and exemplified all that was required of the position resulting in her being made Honorary Life member in 2003 in recognition of her outstanding contribution.

A regular supporter of the 1st Team both 'Home and Away' Joan made many friends and established long term relationships on the Northern league circuit. She loved to be around people and they responded to her and enjoyed undertaking many aspects of fundraising and planning the refurbishment of the clubhouse. Her involvement with the sponsors on a Saturday afternoon and controlling preparations for the players and spectators refreshments, gave her great satisfaction along with baking delicious cakes for the chosen few.

She will be sorely missed and difficult to replace.

Vice-Chairman Elected

Geoff Thompson has been elected as the club's Vice-Chairman. Congratulations Geoff and keep up the good work.

Indoor Nets 2009

Indoor Nets start on Wednesday 11th February 8pm - 10pm for 8 weeks at Darwen Vale School.

Club Dinner 2009

Our Club Dinner will be held at the main ground on Friday 1st May.

Please reserve this date in your diary and advise Colin Charnock, 01254 773107, if you can attend. Previous functions have sold out quickly, so early reservations are recommended. Further details about speakers etc. will be published shortly.

Mr Chairman's Remarks

I am honoured and privileged to have been made Darwen CC Chairman for 2009 and I hope we have an enjoyable and successful season together.

We face many challenges ahead both on the financial front, with the present credit crunch and ensuring we continue to take the club forward. Expenditure continues to increase (Water rates 2006 £200 - 2009 £2000), as an example. I also suspect that sponsors may be less likely to be supporting other organisations in the present financial climate. Therefore we must work even harder to ensure we stride forward.

On that note one of my goals is to have more people involved contributing towards OUR club. I don't necessarily want people to have to attend meetings, as I know that this is not everyone's cup of tea, but if you can contribute in some small way, it will share the increasing workload. We are all in this together as a leisure activity.

Over the next couple of months we will be looking to generate some idea's which will be shared with the members. If you feel that you can contribute to those idea's in whatever way, please put your name forward. Alternatively if you have your own ideas/suggestions please share them with me and I will take them forward on your behalf.

Up the Towers.

Cheers Graham Ainslie

New Professional Signs

The club is please to announce our new professional for 2009. David Wiese, a 23 year old all rounder from South Africa is to join us for the summer. David is a right handed batsmen and right arm fast opening bowler. He plays for Easterns, the Titans and has represented South Africa A. He promises to be a great acquisition for the club.

Chairman Graham Ainslie

A new chairman is in place at DCC. His name Graham 'Bill' Ainslie and he takes over after an excellent spell in charge from Matthew Grant. Matthew has moved out of the area to be closer to work in Warrington and leaves his post with the thanks of all Darwen Cricket Club members.

Now the baton has passed to a loyal, stalwart of the club who could / can (delete as appropriate!) play the game.

Good Luck Bill!

Andy Rigby The Author Returns

Riggers is back with a new book this time about Blackburn Rovers

It is a collection of ten profiles of Rovers players from Brian Douglas to Simon Garner and tells the story of the club between the two finals 1960 and 1987. Reflecting a period when every season was a credit crunch, success was elusive but yet we were entertained by some fantastic players.Not Ronnie Hildersley and Paul McKinnon I hope!

It will be available early in December for 10 Pounds including postage and packaging from Andy at 3 Warwick Avenue Darwen. Could be a useful primer for fans who are only used to success if the worst comes to the worst this year!

Click here to contact Andy by email

Great Minds of DCC!

Brian Reaches 70

One of Darwen's very own legends has amassed his highest score, by some way apparently, as Brian Fish is 70!! A stalwart of the club for many years it is good to see Brian getting some recognition from his colleagues, friends and pupils at St. Cuthbert's School.

Happy Birthday Brian from all at Darwen Cricket Club

Jean and Brian

Jean, Brian, Bill and Ian

Fishy inspects the wicket - step on the gas Darwen!

Happy Birthday Brian

CHAMPIONS

The 2nd League Cup was won by Darwen on Sunday 14th September. Despite most of the team nursing hangovers from the end of season do, the boys managed to pull out all the stops in front of a partisan away following. As you can see from the photo some big drinkers were on tour.

Click Here for the official Match Report.

Second Team Cup Final Rearranged

The Cup Final at atmospheric Preston will now take place on Sunday 14th September at 1pm weather permitting. If the weather is rubbish once more then it will be a bowl out so let's pray for sunshine or Bill Ainslie will bowl a no-ball and Gary Jackson's won't reach!

Six-a-side Winners

Sunday 31st August saw a return of the Six-a-side competition. Once again Michael Horsfield's team failed to win. The winners Sheldon's Super Six are pictured below.

Chris Davies Takes New Second Team Bowling Record

Chris Davies broke the long standing second team bowling record at Birch Hall yesterday. The record of 54 wickets, previously held by David Ainsworth, was set in 1985.

Well done CD.

End of Season Do and Presentation Evening

The end of season is nearly upon us and it has been decided that the presentation evening will be held on the final day of the season Saturday September 13th. A disco, curry, pie and peas will be provided and a fun time will be had by all so make sure you support your club

Gareth Cordingley Reaches 10000 Northern League Runs

To recognise this achievement the club gave Gareth and commemorative plaque. It was handed over by Club Captain Andrew Cook.

Darwen Golf Day Friday 12th September

Daniel Tighe and Chritian Davies Productions present The Darwen Golf Day 2008. Looking at some people's batting techniques at the club there should be great interest.

Click here for more details in beautiful colour Golf Day Details. Cheers Tiger

Race Night Saturday 16th August

The return of the social event of the year - forget Lowey's wedding - this is what it is all about! Starting at 2030 and with FREE admission the runners and riders are back at the DCC.

The details are as follows:-

There are 7 standard Races and 1 Auction Race

20 pounds to sponsor a race

3 pounds to be the owner of a horse

2 pounds to be a jockey

Prizes will be awarded to winning jockeys and riders on the night

All team captains have a copy of the races and there will be a copy behind the bar.

Family Fun Day and Prize Treasure Hunt

This Saturday 19th July sees the First Team take on Carnforth with the prolific South African Ryan Bailey starring for the visitors. From 1400 to 1600 a number of fun events will be taking place, including a Table Top Sale (bring your own tables - 6' maximum length for only 5 pounds), games, competitions, refreshments, face painting, stalls, and take on the bowling machine if you dare!

Entrance fee is reduced to 2 pounds for adults and 1 pound for children and concessions, plus a five pound family ticket is also available. Entrance as always will be free to members.

Please come down and join in the party atmosphere at Birch Hall.

On Sunday 20th July between 1000-1100 there is Prize Treasure Hunt with entry 10 pounds per car, limited places are still available so get your names down fast.

To book a Table Top Space or a set time for your car please contact the club on 01254 701795, or Matthew Grant on 01254 705979 or Mandy Davies on 01254 761404

The Sportsmans Dinner

Once again a highly entertaining evening was had by all at Ewood Park. The organising committee enjoy their moment of glory with Sir Richard Hadlee.

Well done to Gary jackson, Bill Ainslie, Dave Emborough and Neil Whalley for all their efforts.

Awards For All

Chairman Matthew Grant and Captain Andy Cook holding a the Awards for All Certificate £9966 and a Princes' Trust Cert for supporting a teenager in teaching him the skills of Groundsmanship.

Lancs Cup Cancelled

Todays match against Colwyn Bay in the Lancashire and Wales Knockout has been postponed due to poor weather.

He Knows Nutt-All

After recent comments in the local rag Darwen have decided to bring in outside help.

Groundforce 2008

The Lower Darwen Volunteers at work.

Annual Perennial Plant Sale

Andrew Rigby is back with his yearly plant sale for one day only. Sunday 27th April at the club from 930-1200 to raise money for the junior section.

Please come down and support Andrew and the Juniors.

Friendly Cancelled

Sunday's friendly against Church was called off for some unknown reason.

Southport League News

The Southport League has closed its play-cricket website and gone it alone. Their new webbers is www.southportcricket.co.uk

The draw for the 3rds Sandhurst Sheild and the 4ths Pochin Cup has been made and we have home draws in both against New Victoria and Winstanley park respectively.

Club Dinner

The Club Dinner was held on Friday 7th March for those selective few lucky enough to receive an invite and Ken Lowe seems a little emotional after winning a raffle prize!

Senior Fixtures Summary 2008

Click here for a summary of the clubs 2008 Fixtures.

Sportscamp 2008

Monday 11th August to Friday 15th August 2008 sees the return of the annual Sportscamp. Click here for the chairman's Sportscamp Details

Northern League Cup Draw

We have been given a bye in the first round of the Cup and will now play the winners of St.Annes or Leyland away on Sunday July 13th.

Nets and Scorers Wanted

Nets start on Wednesday 27th Feb (8pm-10pm) for 5 weeks. So if you are like Bill Ainslie and want to peak in March get yourself down Darwen Vale next week.

New players are most welcome, and new players that can bowl are even more welcome!

Also there are opportunities to become the scorer of either the First Team or Second Team. This last season involved collecting your £15 for doing very little whilst waiting around for most of the games to be called off. Anyone interested contact Gary Jackson

Lancashire Cup

Colwyn Bay at home has been arranged for Sunday 27th April

Sportscamp 2008

The dates for this years Sportscamp have now been arranged. It will take place from Monday 11th to Friday 15th August. More details to follow when Chris Lowe can get off his sickbed and Merse pays his non-playing subs for 2008.

Sportsmans Dinner

Fancy meeting up with past team mates at Darwen Cricket club's Sportsman’s Dinner on Friday 16th May?

A chance to listen to a top after dinner speaker in Sir RICHARD HADLEE and reminisce on the times you enjoyed at Darwen cricket club with your old team mates.
We are selling tickets at £30 and hope to be able to fill tables of 10 with past playing members of the club. Further details can be obtained from David Bonner who can be contacted on davebonner@talktalk.net. As a club we would very much like to see you as we do believe that our history is just as important as our present day.

Andrew Mercenary Heads For Orrell Dairylea Triangle and Village Life

Strike bowler Andrew Mercer has decided to move onto pastures new for the coming 2008 season. Although this a blow for the club, it may well be a good move for Merse as he bids to reignite his desire to play. Obviously we wish him all the best and will welcome him back after his sabbatical in a couple of seasons. Orrell Red Triangle (??) to give them their proper name, are in the Second tier of the Liverpool Competition, but he will have the chance to play just off the square at Liverpool, Wigan and picturesque Wavertree. He will no doubt take plenty of wickets and may rekindle his batting prowess that he used to talk about.

The loss of Merse, Keith and Sicknote Lowe for the coming season means if you can walk and turn your arm over, you are in with a chance for selection as a bowler!

Thanks and Good Luck Merse!

Cockspur Cup 2008

We have a bye in the first round but will play the winners of Roe Green and Old Xaverians at home in the second round on Sunday May 18th.

Click here for the full draw Cockspur Cup Draw 2008

Sportsmans Dinner

The date for the Sportmans Dinner has been officially confirmed by Bill Ainslie as Friday May 16th at Ewood Park. Conveniently the date coincides with the first open date for the first and second teams - nice one B!

We can now officially announce that the main speaker will be none other than Sir Richard Hadlee, one of the greatest cricketers ever to grace this planet. A Knight of the realm, who could bat, bowl and field and is an ambassador for his country will be sharing his knowledge with us at the home of football. Ticket details coming soon.

Membership Details 2008

To help keep our membership records up to date please download and complete the attached form. Click on one of the links and print off the membership document and follow the instructions.

Click here for to open with .PDF Membership Document 2008

Click here for to open with Microsoft Word Membership Document 2008

Winter Nets, Junior Presentation and AGM

The Junior Presentation will take place on Friday 30th November and the AGM on Monday 3rd December.

Winter Nets have been pencilled in for Wednesday nights (8-10pm) at Darwen Vale. The preliminary dates are Feb 27th, March 5th,12th,19th and 26th. Dates to be confirmed early in the New Year.

International Debut for Yaz

Yaz Patel has helped the Mexican team beat the mighty Houston cricketers over in the US of A. Considering that there are 40 teams just in Houston and 4 in the whole of Mexico it is no mean achievement for the gringos to pull this one out of the bag.

Of course it was a true Darrener that got player of the tour with 39 and 24 not out (playing for his average as usual!), as the Tequila Slammers beat the Oil Barons for the first time in 10 years and only the second time in 29 years! As you can see from the photo below the Tower has gone Stateside so it won't be too long before we are subject of a takeover.

Not content with victory over the Septics, Yaz is this weekend playing in the Central American Championships, which is an ICC event, and will be given his international cap! Tony Grieg, Graeme Hick, Kevin Pietersen are just a few of the great cricketers to turn their back on their homeland, you can now add Yasir 'The Turncoat' Patel to that list.

First and Second Team Averages

Click Here for the First and Second Team Batting and Bowling Averages.

Keith Semple Flies Home

Keith turns over a new leaf as he starts a new chapter in his life - for once he looks smart or should I say like Rodders in his blazer!

Atif Ashraf

DARWEN’S Birch Hall ground had never seen anything like it. The Northern League hadn’t either in more than 50 years of action.Records fell by the wayside as Darwen pro Atif Ashraf finished off another great season with a double ton in Keith Semple’s last game for the club.

Ashraf, who is on the verge of Pakistan’s Test team, hammered a League record 17 sixes in his knock of 208 not out. Four disappeared out of the ground; another shook the clubhouse. It was his third unbeaten League century in a row and followed 144 at Netherfield and 140 at home to Fleetwood. In between there was another unbeaten knock of 76 which won Darwen the League’s 20/20 Cup.

Atif topped the League averages last season and he repeated the feat this time. Discounting a couple of knocks in abandoned games he has hit 1045 runs at an average of over 116. Fans can only imagine how many he might have hit had Darwen not lost seven games to the weather.

The lost matches certainly cost Darwen the title which went to St Annes who had been in big trouble at Netherfield before winning in the last over and picking up 12 points to pip Morecambe. Darwen, who had lost just one game all season, finished third and Kendal fourth.

Atif’s 208 was the first double century in the 55-year history of the Northern League and it topped Bernard Reidy’s 184 not out for St Annes 30 years ago. And it came from just 45 overs, Darwen declaring on 310 for 5, just nine runs short of Netherield’s League record. Skipper Semple gambled on using the extra five overs to skittle Barrow but they held on with two wickets to spare. Darwen’s previous top score was the 174 not out by West Indian star Ken Rickards in 1953. Ashraf also holds Darwen’s second highest score with 154 not out at Kendal last season. Darwen secretary Colin Charnock saw Rickards’ 174. “He was a really class player,” he recalled. “His late cut had a touch of magic about it. He used to play it almost out of the ‘keeper’s hands. But Atif certainly has the edge for sheer force.” Atif's League scores this season: 51*, 130, 63*, 38, 11, 9, 27, 32, 95*, 74*, 10, 1, 12, 144*, 140*, 208*.

20/20 News

DARWEN retained the Northern League 20/20 Cup with an easy win over Lancaster in a repeat of last year’s final. But their semi-final clash with St Annes at Birch Hall immediately before the final was a real nail-biter. Just about every supporter and most of the team had given it up as a lost cause. Not that they would admit as much.

They all reckoned without the determination of skipper Keith Semple who kept plugging away grimly.

Keith was determined to go out with some silverware and he turned in a virtuoso performance against Ian Austin’s well-fancied St Annes.

He was top scorer in a low-scoring game with a hard-hitting 26 which included three fours and a six and Darwen struggled to reach 104 for 8 thanks to youngsters Kameron Anwar and Nathan Carr keeping the innings alive and edging the total into three figures.

Semple was brilliant and St Annes fell apart. He took two wickets for just 10 runs off his four overs, snapped up three very smart catches and ran out danger man and former Darwen player Duncan Whalley as the visitors collapsed from 97 for 6 and overs to spare to 98 all out. Darwen's fielding was superb and young Anwar held a real cracker out towards the middle of Birch Hall Avenue.

Of course, all the Darwen fans reckoned they always thought their team still had a good chance of reaching the final even as St Annes closed in rapidly on the meagre total. But none of them would have stuck a fiver on the faint hope...

In the semi, Atif Ashraf and Chris Clarke went early but Mark Emery rallied the cause with a useful 19. Austin (18) and Gareth Evans (27) got St Annes off to a good start but Atif, Andrew Mercer and Keith each took a couple of wickets as the challenge crumbled.

In the final Lancaster managed 110 for 9, Andrew Mercer starring with 3 for 15, and Cookie getting in on the act with a couple. Atif (76 not out with 8 fours and 3 sixes) and Keith knocked ‘em off in double quick time after opener Chris Lowe had struck a steady 20.

League president Brian Standing presented the 20/20 trophy to the Darwen captain who thanked everyone for their support and said how much he had enjoyed his years at Birch Hall.

"What a great performance," said Darwen chairman Matthew Grant. "We were certainly up against it in the semi-final but then we all just enjoyed the final. It's great that Keith won some a trophy in his last season."

The league championship was to be fought out between St Annes and Morecambe but Darwen were in with a chance of runners-up spot.

20/20 News

The Semi Final and Final of the Thwaites 20 20 Cup will both be played at Birch Hall on Sunday 9th September. Our Semi against St.Annes will start at 1200 with the winners going onto play last years losing finalists Lancaster at 1530.

The Defeated Finalists

Unfortunately the Fourth team lost to Tarleton in the league cup final. Despite the result the Man of the Match award was given to Danny Fradd who scored 56 and took 2 stumpings - well done Danny. Alex Davies also scored 56 not out, but it was a case of too many missed chances but we are still top of the league and going all out for the title.

Yaz Off To Mexico

Yazoo Patel has played his last game for the club for the foreseeable future as after a well earned sabbatical in T'Egypt he is embarking on a new teaching career in Mexico! This is not because he has to drive Atif to every ground in the Northern League it has been planned for some time. He goes for a year and may be more to teach English and will be a big loss to the team. He has played an important role with both bat and ball and his positive attitude has been great to see both on and off the field.

Good Luck Yas - il y a muchos arboles en el jardin!!

Andy and Chris Rigby's Book Now Available

The eagerly anticipated book 'Birch Hall Memories - Peter Lamster 1946-2006' is now available from the club for just £10. The book is a mixture of both the humorous and the serious aspects of life at Darwen CC from the 1960s until the present day, as well as containing some fulsome tributes to Peter.

All money raised will be used by the club to commemorate Peter’s massive influence.

Having purchased and read the book praise must go to Andrew and Chris for a superbly constructed book giving an insight into the 'goings-on' at our wonderful club. The 'handbook' story about the unnamed former committee member is the kind of humour you cannot make up and probably could only happen at Darwen Cricket Club. Absolute quality!!

BUY ONE NOW AND SEE IF YOU ARE IN!!

"The Origins of the Painting on the Front Cover.

The painting on the front cover is discussed in one of the later chapters. Its precise origins came to light after we had gone to print and I would like to clarify it here. Dave Bonner's father, Ron, died in 1990. Ron had served on the Committee for many years and from donations made to the club in his memory, Dave's family asked Simon Painter to paint the picture, to be displayed in the club house. Copies of the painting were also sold to raise money for the club. Ron also, like Peter, always sat in that position to watch his cricket.

Apologies for the oversight.

Chris and Andrew"