The Midsomer Norton Methodist Cricketers, along with their wives and sweethearts, recently met for their Annual Dinner, this year at Emborough’s Old Down Inn.
Our thanks go to Maxine and her staff for a good spread and to Doug and Jenny Howarth for arranging it all. Tom and Jenny Webb from the Midsomer Norton Club were guests.
It was good to see Dick Milsom again (he does keep so young!), together with other supporters of this flourishing club. It is sad that a number of local teams are no longer around to play this noble sport.
Grace was offered by the President in the words written by John Mander.
Chairman Doug entertained the assembled company with a number of cracker jokes. It was good to have the Club’s London representative, Gavin Eyles, present, together with the rest of the Club Captain’s family. Jim spoke of the performances of the team and individual players in 2017. He recalled the time when Dick was hit by the cricket ball and his trousers went up in flames – he had a box of matches in his pocket at the time!
Awards were presented as follows:
Batting – Best Average: Stuart Green
Highest Score: Craig Eyles and Stuart Green
Bowling – Best Average: David Baker
Best Performance: David Baker
Players’ Award: Alex Nash
President’s Award: Mark Robinson
Captain’s Award: Daniel Shearn
An Award was also made to Wayne Higgins for scoring a maiden century.
John and Dee Baker were also given gifts to mark John’s Retirement as Secretary after 27 years, plus one as Joint Secretary with the late Michael Gilson – a notable achievement! At last, thought Dee, I’ll see a bit more of him during the season – or will she?
The Annual Meeting was held a few days after the Dinner. Bob Jones was elected President for 2018 and 2019, succeeding David Shearn.
David Sackett was elected Secretary. He mentioned matters arising, Safeguarding requirements and new Data Protection regulations coming into force in May. It is hoped to purchase a motor roller for the Club’s use at Norton Hill. Otherwise, Club Officers remain unchanged.
The History of Midsomer Norton Methodist Cricket Club (MNMCC) has been published and featured in local newspapers, also in the Methodist Recorder. This limited Edition is entitled ‘Towards 70 Years of Methodist Cricket in the Midsomer Norton Area – Memories, Statistics, Reports and Miscellaneous 1949 – 2017’ and may be obtained from Jim Eyles, John Baker (01761 412328) or from the Editor, c/o Midsomer Norton Methodist Centre BA3 2DR. A fascinating insight into the varying fortunes of a local cricket team, its players and opponents, past and present!
New players are always welcome. Contact Club Captain, Jim Eyles or Team Captain, Stuart Green on: 01761 419396, or Secretary, Dave Sackett on: 01761 415956.
Finally, the highlight of the close season! The Annual Cricket Club Jumble Sale is on Saturday, 14th April, starting at 10 a.m. at the Methodist Centre. A chance to purchase your spring fashions!