In praise of our ground {17.7.08}

The praise has flooded in to LCC this week after our successful hosting of the White Rose game last Sunday.

Huddersfield league officials were so impressed with the ground, surrounds and hospitaility, they mailed secretary and second team all rounder Steve Hartley to pass on their thoughts.

Bradford League President Keith Moss has even suggested we enter a competition for the best kept cricket grounds in England! Praise indeed.

These compliments are a credit to everyone involved with hosting last Sunday's game, especially Rod who put in hours of work making sure everything was spot on for the game.

Our reputation is certainly growing throughout the Bradford league and beyond.

Teams posted

See if you have made the final cut for the weekend's big games by clicking on teams.

"Beaten by one man" lambasts a peeved Powe

Despite another 50 for Ollie Hemmingway, who is brightening up this damp summer with some blistering stroke play, the thirds lost out at Queensbury on Sunday.

However, it was an extraordinary day of cricket leaving skipper Jim Powe bemused and Halifax club officials dashing for the record books.

A fired up Powe rang Website HQ on Sunday evening and was unable to comprehend how ten oppostion players, chasing Lightcliffe's 206, could be out for single figures yet still overall our total.

Powe takes up the story. "We batted first and did reasonably well. Kev Booth got us off to a solid start, before Ollie smacked the ball to all parts of the ground for a fine 72. I chipped in with 28 and we enjoyed our tea thinking we had enough.

"Their batting was poor and seamsters Mark Whiley, Ben Oakland and others were soon amongst the wickets. Yet, from nowhere, one of their chaps started hitting six after six. Before you knew it had 156 not out and they had won by a wicket!

"We were the better team and were beaten by one man. It was a good knock from the fella but hard for us to take when extras were second top score with 10."

The thirds remain second in the league and still in with a good chance of promotion.

The sun shone, the BBQ sizzled, the ground looked picture perfect {13.7.08}

LCC successfully held the White Rose representative game earlier today between the Bradford and Huddersfield Central Leagues.

The ground was a credit to Rod Heyhoe, as spectators, league officals and LCC players poured through the gate. Let's hope it's the first of many big games the club holds in the years to come.

A big thanks to everyone who helped organise the day, and to Paul Ramsden for putting on the popular BBQ.

Bradford League Officials were said to be impressed by the club's organisation of the big game!

Next stop, a Preistley Shield or Cup final?............

Deano dazzles as moor are mauled {13.7.08}

Dean Heyhoe's flight and guile helped bowl the first team to a comprehensive eight wicket victory on Saturday.

In a sublime 11 over spell, in which only four of his balls went for runs, Deano tied the batsmen in knots with his control and accuracy. It was a perfect display of finger spinning on a drying wicket.

Skipper Richard Nichols was once again in fine form with the ball, ripping out the heart of the Moor batting with four cheap wickets. Adil Ladak also came out with credit and deserved his one wicket.

The target of 58 never looked in doubt and despite the loss of Michael Brooke (14) and 'classical cricketer' Bruce Lunn (9), Jocky Wilson and Nichols saw the firsts home for a 5pm victory and an early start at the Sun Inn.

The welcome win sees the first rise at least two places in the table. See the JCT Site for the latest league tables.

Wood and Harto shine in damp defeat {13.7.08}

Mick Wood's bowling heroics and all rounder Steve Hartley's hard hitting batting were not enough to prevent the seconds sliding to defeat at Esholt.

The toss was always going to be crucial. Gaz Stevens face said it all when the pound coin, unusually, came down tails side up after calling heads.

In-form Rob Crookes had a poor day at the office by his standards, "unlucky" to be given LBW was the general view from the dressing room. Wickets kept tumbling and once Hartley had gone for 43 and Richard Thompson for 15, the innings subsided to 103 all out. "It's thirty below par" mused one Esholt regular as the players tucked into the second best teas on the circuit.

The bowling attack came out firing on all cylinders. Ramsey Al-Chalaby, fresh after a weekend 'relaxing' at Glastonbury, steamed in from the caravan end and picked up an early scalp.

Despite getting plenty of turn and bite off spinner Steve Hartley failed to pick up a wicket. However, a fired up Mick Wood turned the game on its head with four wickets to raise hopes of a famous win. However, dropped chances proved costly as Esholt edged home by five wickets.

Rick Powe said: "We battled to the end but the toss was crucial. I'm gutted."

Under 15s in cup final after glorious victory! {13.7.08}

On yet another gloomy night with storm clouds gathering at the heavily wooded YMCA ground, Augustinians Under 15s put up an heroic fight to push Lightcliffe Under 15s all the way in the Collinson Cup semi final.

Batting first, Lightcliffe, urged on by a full compliment of blanketed and shivering supporters, took a while to get used to the heavy conditions and slow outfield. Grech and Kalanovic kept the momentum at 5 runs an over and took advantage of some loose bowling, but in trying to increase the pressure too many wickets were lost hitting across the line and in the end Lightcliffe only managed 114 off their 20 overs.

Augustinians, displaying their local knowledge of the wicket, hit powerfully to the shorter boundaries and were quickly well above the asking rate. Lightcliffe’s nerves were jangling and tempers fraying, but Holden managed his bowlers masterfully bringing himself and Grech on to slow the over rate and using Edwards to capture key wickets and shift the pressure back to Augustinians. Fumbled fielding and spilled chances meant that Augustinians needed 14 off the last 2 overs but Sharples and Edwards kept it tight and a relieved Lightcliffe were into the final on Bank Holiday Monday!

Richard Edwards said: "It was a tense action packed game and everyone was overcome with emotion when victory was sealed."

Latest news from U13s campaign {13.7.08}

Lightcliffe U13s v Cleckheaton U13s 10-7-08

The recent poor weather had put this fixture in doubt and the surrounding dark clouds did not look good. However, the wicket was fine and the outfield dry, so the game commenced.

Lightcliffe decided to field first, but some loose bowling at the start allowed Cleckheaton to reach 47 before the first two wickets fell in the 6th over. The first, a Max Sheldrake/Harry Sutcliffe run out was quickly followed by a great catch by U11 player George Ayrton to dismiss Cleckheaton’s big hitting opener. From then on the wickets started to come regularly with James Lumb taking 3-11 and Patrick Wild 2-2 including another catch by Ayrton and one from Robert Barnes.

As the 16th over started, the threatened rain finally came. After a lengthy downpour it was decided that despite potentially clearing skies the game could not continue due to the state of the wicket and the match was abandoned.

Cleckheaton 90-7 Lightcliffe - Match abandoned

Call for help with covering up wickets {10.7.08}

With rain again in the air, hard working LCC Groundsman Rod Heyhoe has today asked for assistance in putting the covers on and off over the next 72 hours.

Please see Rod's message below. Rod put in a lot of hours each week so if anyone could spare a few minutes to help him out it would be much appreciated.

Rod said: "Can anyone assist in putting the covers on tonight after the Under 13 game and tomorrow night after the under 12 game please.

Also assistance tomorrow morning and saturday about 10am would be most welcome to get them off if it is not raining.

We have five games of cricket between now, Thursday pm, and Sunday evening."

Thanks in advance from Rod if anyone can lend a hand.

Alan hits the jackpot! {10.7.08}

Long serving LCC Club Member Alan Sutcliffe was celebrating today after winning a cool £200 in the popular all weather lottery.

The good news call came through to lottery organiser Rod Heyhoe at 3pm today and he was straight on the blower to Alan to tell him the good news. "I was blow away with excitment, which was quite ironic bearing in mind it is the all weather lottery."

There are about 30 Members in the all weather lottery, but we are missing out on hundreds of pounds by the slow take up rate. Come on Members get involved!

Rod launched a new appeal today to get people signing up with the chance to win life changing sums of money.

Rod said: "There is a new lottery coming on stream with a £100,000 daily prize and the club get 60% of all monies as against 35% at present. I have asked her for details which will be forthcoming shortly.

"The disappointing thing is that we have NOT sold to one new member this season and lost two. Only 29 numbers sold each week. How many players have we registered? How many Juniors and members have we got? Why are they not in the draw every day?."

Rod added: "I give Treasurer David Curran a cheque each month for about £50. That is nearly two pounds a month for each player. You can easily work out that this could easily be £500 a month for doing nothing other than sending a return to Calderdale each month. So Please can some one sell a ticket, get some new players before we lose all the juniors and their parents for another winter. Entry forms are in the tea room and changing room.

"Again I say that the Lightcliffe Lottery is the easiest way to make money for the club. A no Brainer. And every player has a chance of winning £10,000 a day."

So dig deep everyone and support the club............

Teams announced!

This week's teams have now been posted on the site

Arnie Sidebottom at Enjoy Cricket Week 2008!

The Club will again be running Enjoy Cricket Week, the Yorkshire County Cricket Club and ECB supported venture. This year the Club is pleased to announce that Arnie Sidebottom (former England and Yorkshire Cricketer and father of current Test player Ryan) is one of the coaches who will be attending.

The event begins on Monday the 21st July and ends on Friday 25th July and is being co-ordinated by Junior Cricket Chairman, Duncan Powe. Those invited to attend are children between the ages of 9 and 17, although the core of those attending is expected to be ages 15 and below. Enjoy Cricket Week is open to club members and non-members alike.

Each day begins at 10am and concludes at 3pm and daily attendance costs £2. Registration occurs once, on the first day attended.

Refreshments will be available. The Club is asking that parents volunteer their services to assist in preparing and serving the refreshments throughout the day (Lunch is approx £1.50).

Contact details as follows:
duncanpowe@googlemail.com Tel: 01422 201699

Any questions arising please contact Duncan or your Junior Team.

We look forward to seeing you all during the week!

Gala Raffle - Winning Tickets Announced (7.7.08)

Following the draw yesterday at the club's Annual Gala, a list of the winning tickets has been released by club Chairman John Brooke and raffle promoter Paul Ramsden. Prizes can be claimed by ringing Paul on 07767 252 639. The club would like to thank Artisan Fireplaces for their kind sponsorship of the event.

Lightcliffe Cricket Club Gala Raffle 2008 - Winning numbers

£200 Tog 24 Technical clothing gift voucher - 47
£25 voucher, Prego Restaurant, Brighouse - 2086
Two England v South Africa test match tickets - 244
£25 voucher Da Sandro Ristorante, Huddersfield - 2376
Two Huddersfield Town match tickets - 5579
Sun Inn Lightcliffe, steak meal for two with wine - 6022
Brassiere Lingerie Hipperholme, voucher & beauty products - 2182
Carousel Clothing Hipperholme, voucher - 3806
Charisma Hair & Beauty Hipperholme, voucher - 3612
Two Huddersfield Giants match tickets - 2087
Harefield Farm Shop, Hartshead Moor, voucher - 522
Cordelia Jones Hipperholme, beauty products - 2673
Raistrick’s Newsagants Hipperholme, gift set - 2994
The Veg Shack, Hipperholme,voucher &wine - 3735
Black Diamond Films, London, 8 DVD box set - 3630
Fryer Tuck’s Hipperholme, fish&chip voucher - 3615
Whisky - 2885
Anna’s Beauty Parlour - 357
Perfume - 5521
Wine - 3294
Wine - 2181

The cricket club acknowledges, with grateful thanks, the support of all those listed above.

The waiting is over.........here are the teams {2.7.08}

It's a Farsley fixture for both teams on Saturday. The firsts are at home the seconds travel to Red Lane.

At the risk of repitition, once again Bruce Lunn has grafted away in the Willow Tea room long into the dark night to get two teams selected.

Thirds game is a wash out {30.6.08}

FC Paulo's number one bowls seconds to victory {30.6.08}

A mesmeric spell of seam bowling from Tom Powe turned the game for the seconds on Saturday.

Tom, bowling up the hill with guile and a calm control, ripped the heart out of the Pudsey St Lawrence middle order to set up a stunning success for Gaz Steven's side. His four wickets turned the game in LCC's favour. Tom celebrated long into the night at the FC Paulo end of season do in Huddersfield.

Amir Yakub also stepped up the plate with three fine wickets as a much needed win was settled in style. Youngster Kristian Sharples also picked up a winner. It was good to see the 'John Embury-esque' Steve Hartley chivelling away with his under-rated off spin for 14 overs. Despite being wicketless, Steve was telling anyone who would listen in the Sun Inn that he had deserved at least two wickets.......

Earlier in the day, the solid opening pair of all rounder Hartley {41} and the consistent Rob Crookes {33} provided a useful platform to be built on. There were contributions right down the order with Jimmy Shaw {22}, fresh after an Asian Adventure, Gaz Stevens {17}, Rick Powe {13} all chipping in.

The win lifts the seconds up a couple of positions in the league and eases relegation concerns.

After the game Rob Crookes said: "We needed that. It was good to get one over my old team and get some vital points. We played some good cricket and deserved our success."

Gala raffle reminder

The annual Lightcliffe gala is only nine days away!

The much anticipated summer extravaganza will once again at the cricket club with fun for all the family.

Hot sunshine is forecast, but in case Bob Rust is wrong and the rain falls, it's important that players and members sell their raffle tickets.

You should have had your tickets by now, so please get selling! A range of top prizes are on offer. Please see Steve Hartley or Paul Ramsden if you haven't received your tickets or would like some more.

Remember, this is the important club fundraiser of the year. All help and support is much appreciated.

Experienced third team line up announced

Brucie Lunn has worked his magic once again to get a third team together for this Sunday.

With Jim Powe enjoying an extended break in the sun, and vice skipper Mark Whiley missing, Tom Powe will be making debut as captain.

Tom said: "It's a great honour to follow in the footsteps of my brother. I wont let the club down."

Click on the teams section to see who has made the line up.

No waiting for the teams this week! {24.6.08}

Bruce Lunn's phone was working overtime tonight to get the teams selected nice and early for the weekend's games.

Find out where you are playing by clicking on the teams section. The third team will be announced later in the week.

Apologies for the delay in posting the teams last week. Er, 'Technical hitches' struck again...............

Full report on seconds valiant run chase {23.6.08}

Lightcliffe 2nd X1 v Yeadon 2nd X1 22 June 2008

After a washout on Saturday Lightcliffe Seconds made a bold attempt to end a losing streak in a tight game with Yeadon on Sunday.

On a blustery day, Sam Godden and Mick Wood, fresh from pounding the streets of Leeds in the morning, bowled accurately as Yeadon started slowly having chosen to bat. At 21 for 1 after 12 overs the home side were well in command. Former shot stopper Andy Pullan came on to pick up a couple of wickets as the Wakefield Roaders continued to apply good pressure. When Pullan picked up another and the guile Tom Powe’s probing seam up provided keeper Rob Crookes with his third victim Yeadon were in trouble at 117 for 5. However the game started to drift away from this point as hard hitting Ben Galley smashed an unorthodox 50 in just 33 balls and put on over 100 with skipper and opener Andy Pickering who went on to make an excellent unbeaten 121. Galley’s luck ran out when he was caught on the edge off the under-used Steve Hartley to bring up Lightcliffe’s third point and the innings closed on 243 for 6 off 50 overs.

Hartley and Crookes got off to a flier notching up 28 in the first four overs before both perished in the space of four balls. James Shaw (30), back from studying overseas, and Amir Yaqub steadied the ship to take the total to 67 when the latter was dismissed. It was the 'ginger bull dog' Richard Powe who changed the course of the innings however as he made batting look easy hitting the ball to all parts with some lusty blows and sweetly timed drives. His 50 came up in 38 balls and when he was dismissed for 91, including 5 sixes the score was 208 for 6 with 6 overs remaining. Hopefully Rick is available for the rest of the season. Mick Wood was batting well by this stage and when he hit his Yeadon namesake Rick Wood for 16 in 2 overs Lightcliffe needed just 16 off the last three overs with seven wickets down. However, it was not to be as two wickets fell in the next over to leave the ten man home side a frustrating 11 short on 232.

The eight bonus points picked up kept Lightcliffe just outside the relegation zone but a win is needed soon to boost confidence and start the climb up the table.

After the game Rick Powe said: "I really got a buzz out of my innings but the fact it was in vain made it a bitter sweet moment. I hope to get a run of games going now and help us climb that league table. We'd have won with eleven men. No doubt about it."

Kev is king as thirds truimph {23.6.08}

Kev Booth completed a successful weekend with a classy 81 in the thirds win yesterday.

Still buzzing from his quiz win on Saturday evening, Kev looked in good nick from ball one. He struck nine fine fours in his two hour knock. Other contributions came from in-form Colin Saunders (51), Sam Kalanovic (14no) Ollie Hemingway (10) and Josh Mclean (9).

In reply the Augustinians batting was ripped apart by the raw pace attack. Wickets were shared amongst Josh McLean (3-36), Mark Whiley (2-36), Aiden Edwards (1-21), Marcus Kelly (1-24), and Sam Kalanovic (2-13).

A big thanks to Robert Brooke who put on the white coat for an afternoon of umpiring.

Vice-Captain Mark Whiley said: "It was a good all round display from the lads. The wind made it very difficult but we stuck to our task well.

"The veterans at the top of the order did us proud."

Skipper Jim Powe was delighted to receive news of the victory as he sunned it up on a Spanish beach with girlfriend Emma.

Firsts beaten at Spen

On a very windy day at Spen Lane the firsts were second best to Spen Victoria.

The hosts totalled 214 (with Lightcliffe old boy Peter Jackson making a brisk 29). James Horne picked up four wickets. In reply we were about 45 short and never really in the hunt.

More details to follow!

Seconds just lose out despite some bull dog spirit

Our second team fell an agonising ten runs short of victory earlier today despite an heroic run chase.

Full scorecard details are not yet available but chasing Yeadon's 243 we posted 233. Rick Powe was the batting hero with a typically hard hitting 91. Full details will be posted when they are available!

Classical night of quizzing {22.6.06}

Lightcliffe's willow tea room was packed out last night for our popular quiz night.

Quizmasters Mark and Angela Whiley delivered a fantastic quiz to over 50 eggheads. A good time was had by all.

Players, committee men, supporters, and friends of the club all supported this club fundraiser. A big thanks to all those who attended. A hot supper was provided thanks to Tracey Powe, Liz Howard and John Brooke. Duncan Powe ran a well stocked bar. Three raffle prizes were snapped up by the happy winners.

The winning team was an iq busting line-up of Cricket chair Bruce Lunn, first team captain Richard Nichols, player-secretary Steve Hartley and third team stalwart and under 11s manager Kev Booth. The winning team can be seen celebrating in the photos section.

Kev said: "It was a good team to play in. We complemented each other and despite a mid innings lull we held our nerve and got over the finish line first. It was a good feeling for us all."

The next social event will be our annual gala on 6 July.

Team delays. A statement.

The web team would like to apologise for the delay in uploading this week's teams. They were put on the site on Thursday morning but in the wrong box. A schoolboy error. Normal service resumed next week.

Pay up plea {21.6.06}

The committee's rallying call for players to pay their subs has resulted in a handful of cheques been written in the last week. However, there are still a number of players who have not payed.

Please could all players make every effort to pay in the next week. Treasurer Dave Curran would be very grateful to receive your monies at the quiz night on Saturday.

Avoid been 'named and shamed', dig deep and pay up!

Scorecard service coming shortly {21.6.06}

The LCC website is not standing still.

We will shortly be updating the site to include scorecards from teams throughout the club.

Stuart Crosher has spent hours designing this new service. The early drafts look stunning.

Junior and senior match reporters will be contacted shortly with the details.

As always, a big thanks to Stu for the hours of service he is giving to the project.

Firsts look to take Gomersal win into double header {20.6.06}

The first team's stunning win against Gomersal last weekend has not received the headlines it should have done.

Richard Nichols' charges are looking to build on the win this weekend with games against Windhill and Spen Victoria on Saturday and Sunday respectively.

A full match report service will be posted on Sunday night on all the weekend's games!

Better late than never, here's a report on last weekend's second team game

It's been a slow week of news on the website due to unforseen technical difficulties.

However, here is a report on last week's second team games against Hanging Heaton and Pudsey Congs.

Lightcliffe 2nd X1 v Hanging Heaton 2nd X1 14 June 2008
Lightcliffe 2nd X1 v Pudsey Congs 2nd X1 15 June 2008

Lightcliffe Seconds struggled again in a double header weekend coming out second best on both days.

Away at Hanging Heaton on Saturday Lightcliffe’s four bowlers all produced tidy spells to restrict the home side to 191 for 8 in their 50 overs. Dean Heyhoe proved the most successful 4 for 47 with Roger Stead, Ramsey Al Chalaby and Evan Edwards picking up one each. The Wakefield Roaders worked their way to 150 for 5 with 10 overs remaining and looked on course for victory. Rob Crookes with 34, Amir Yaqub 48 and Joe Duffy, 28 all contributing well. But when Yaqub fell two short of his half century the lower order folded quickly and were dismissed 31 short for 160 in 43 overs.

Six changes for the Sunday fixture at Pudsey Congs saw a complete new bowling line up. Skipper Gaz Stevens chose to bat first, however, on a good looking track. Rob Crookes and Steve Hartley, prolific together at the top of the order so far this season, both went cheaply. Stevens and James Horne steadied the ship taking the total to 58 before the third wicket fell and Richard Thompson batted stylishly for 34. However, despite double figure knocks from James Flower, James Shaw and Andy Pullan, Lightcliffe could only muster 161 before they were bowled out in the 45th over. This never looked like it was going to be enough and when the Congs openers rode their luck to put on 90 before Hartley broke through the writing was on the wall. Horne and Pullan bowled accurately to pick up two and one wickets respectively and Hartley bagged a second before Congs reached their target in the 45th over.

After the game, off spinner Andy Pullan said: "I'm delighted to be back playing the odd game and helping out the lads. I've played in two games so far and been on the losing team both times. I'm hoping for a change in fortune this weekend."

Steven’s men will be hoping for a turn of fortune in another double header this week as they look to end a string of defeats.

U13s win again as Woodlands defeated {20.6.06}

Lightcliffe U13s v Woodlands U13s 19-06-08

A return match following the previous week’s cup match produced another entertaining game, this time at Woodlands.

Woodlands batted first but got off to a shaky start with a run out in the first over. Confusion by the batsmen was pounced upon by Harry Sutcliffe who neatly returned the ball to the bowler’s end for the run out. When more wickets fell in quick succession (Jack Sheldrake and Jasper Ayrton doing the damage with another run out by Harry Sutcliffe), Woodlands found themselves on 22 for 5 off 5 overs. Things settled down then, with a Woodlands player retiring on 30 and the total reached 71 for 6 from their 20 overs. Top bowling was from Jack Sheldrake with 2-11.

Lightcliffe came in to bat with Max Sheldrake and Jasper Ayrton playing some steady cricket and keeping the scoreboard moving at the required rate. The first wicket fell in the 11th over with the total on 47. Max Sheldrake continued, before retiring on 32 and the Woodlands total was passed in the 16th over without further loss.


Woodlands 71-6 Lightcliffe 72-1

Are you dreaming of a midsummer's night quiz truimph? {19.6.06}

Don't forget the cricket club quiz night this Saturday 8.30pm onwards in the clubhouse. Please make every effort to support this club fundraiser.

Mark Whiley and his wife have been grafting for hours to get the right balance of questions.

Hot supper and well stocked 'non alcoholic' beers served in the willow team room.

ALL WELCOME!

Selection sorted

It's been another busy week for the club's selection team tank. The teams have now been decided after Brucie Lunn released the teams to the waiting press pack. Click in the teams section to see which team you are in.

EASY WIN FOR U13s!

Lightcliffe U13s v Wibsey Park Chapel U13s 12-06-08

Lightcliffe batted first and openers Jasper Ayrton and James Lumb made good progress, playing some nice strokes and running well for quick singles. It was not until the twelfth over, with the score on 66, that the first wicket fell, Lumb (19) getting a top edge and skying the ball to a grateful fielder. Patrick Wild came into bat and immediately started hitting the ball around and within another 4 overs both he and Ayrton had retired on 30 apiece. Jack Sheldrake continued the fast scoring with a quick fire 29no and Patrick Lathom-Sharp finished on 8no giving Lightcliffe a total of 148-1.

With a healthy total to defend, it was time for the whole team to have a bowl when Wibsey came in to bat. Wickets fell steadily throughout the innings with Ben Armitage taking his first U13s wicket of the season thanks to a smart catch from wicket-keeper Niall Cuttle. Catching was a feature of Lightcliffe’s evening with no less than 6 of the Wibsey players falling to catches (3 of those being caught & bowled). In the end, as the usual bowlers came on to bowl the wickets fell regularly, Wibsey finishing on 75 all out. James Lumb topped the bowling again with 3-2 and Patrick Lathom Sharp added a useful 2-2.

Lightcliffe 148-1 Wibsey Park Chapel 75 ao

Ollie Hemingway beasts 31 in 7 hits as u-15s truimph! {12.6.08}

Under 15s match report from match played on 11th June.

Lightcliffe CC Halifax League Under 15s played their “Get out of Jail free” card against Bradshaw on Wednesday 11th June and held on to their 100% record for the season by the skin of their teeth. Having powered past Outlane in the Cup last week when Ollie Hemingway pinch-hit a contemptuous 31 in 7 scoring shots & Joe Greenwood hit 27 & took 4 priceless wickets, the wheels came off big time at the start of the Lightcliffe innings against a plucky Bradshaw team. 9 for 3 in no time at all became 53 for 8 with half the overs still to be bowled. Sam Kalanovic and Man of the Match Kris Sharples had struck some firm blows but 6 batsmen sharing 2 runs between them tells it’s own story. Luckily, Evan Edwards and Joe Greenwood coming in at No.10 dug in and took the score to 93 before Edwards retired on 30.
Needing 100 exactly to win Bradshaw began strongly and were quickly ahead of the run rate, Chambers hitting 33, before being pegged back by Edwards, Sharples and Godden. In the end two technically brilliant catches at long on by Sharples off Holden and Grech turned the game and Lightcliffe got home by 14 runs.
A lesson for everyone in never giving up. Well played to both teams!

U13s in cup thriller {11.6.08}

Lightcliffe U13s v Woodlands U13s 09-06-08 – Cup 2nd round

A fine game of cricket played on a pleasant evening at Wakefield Road.

Woodlands batted first and made steady progress with the help of some good mixed with some erratic bowling from Lightcliffe. The total was 59 from 13 overs before the first wicket fell to James Lumb. Fielding was once again of a high standard with several players throwing themselves around in desperation to keep the runs down. More wickets gradually fell with catches by Harry Sutcliffe and Jack Sheldrake and a direct hit run out by Oliver Firth.
In the end Woodlands made 98 from their 20 overs.

Lightcliffe came in knowing they needed 5 an over to take them through to the next round of the cup, but as so often has happened this season, early wickets fell with two going in the first two overs. Jack Sheldrake (6) and Patrick Wild (24no) then got their heads down and steadied things before Sheldrake was unfortunately run-out trying for a second run following an overthrow. That brought James Lumb into bat who proved his consistency by going on to reach a 50 partnership with Wild before retiring at 30 in the 17th over. The score was now 80.
Quick wickets followed and it came down to the last over with Lightcliffe needing 10 to win. Harry Sutcliffe (6) hit a cracking 4 from the second ball of the over and a couple of singles brought it down to the last ball with Lightcliffe needing a 4 from it to win. Alas, a good ball only allowed a single and the match was lost by 2 runs.

This match was played in a great spirit by both sides and the tension in the last over with both sets of spectators cheering their teams on, made for the best all round Lightcliffe U13s match so far this season.

Lightcliffe 96-6 Woodlands 98-5

Teams announced!

It's a big weekend of cricket at Wakefield Road. The teams have now been announced. See where you are playing by clicking on the teams section.

A packed summer of social events at LCC {10.6.08}

Here are some forthcoming events for you to note in your packed diaries. It's all go at Lightcliffe Cricket Club..........

Sat June 21 - Quiz night in the pavillion. From 8.30pm. ALL WELCOME.

Sun 6 July - Annual Gala day. More details on this to follow.

Monday 28 July - Half-price test cricket at Headingley. Contact Paul Ramsden to join the party.

Sunday 25 August - Annual 'mini tour' to Lincs. Full day's cricket and camp over. All welcome. Please contact James Horne for more details.

Friday 3 October - Annual Golf Day. See news post below.

Friday 10 October - Annual Club Dinner at Lightcliffe Golf Club.

If anyone has any other events, away from the cricket field, they would like to be added in please mail michaeljbrooke@btinternet.com

Senior teams' weekend round-up

ONE RUN DEFEAT DESPAIR FOR TWOS

Lightcliffe seconds tumbled to an agonising one run defeat to Spen Victoria in what may prove to be a relegation battle come the end of the season.

Home skipper Gareth Stevens inserted the visitors in the hope of getting the best from overcast conditions. His theory worked out well early in the Spen innings as they struggled to 58 for 5 against the opening pace of Adil Ladak, back after university exams, and the guile and accuracy of evergreen Roger Stead. Both picked up two victims with much improving Tom Powe claiming the other. Stead ended the match’s highest partnership and claimed his third and fourth scalps in successive balls with the score on 96 before Steve Hartley with two and Kristian Sharples mopped up the tail to leave the final score on 146.

Rob Crookes and Hartley again opened confidently for the Wakefield Rd side putting on 35 in good time before both were adjudged caught behind to leave ‘Cliffe on 45 for 2. Captain Stevens and Amir Yaqub steadied the ship and young Joe Duffy played nicely to put the home team in full command at 120 for 4 before the wheels fell off. Three ducks in a row caused consternation in the dressing room before Tom Powe appeared to have settled the nerves with a couple of lusty blows to take the score to 143 for 7. Chasing the 4 for victory Powe tried one big shot too many and when Stevens, who had batted serenely through to reach a well deserved 50, hit one straight to backward point with the total on 145 Spen sensed a shock. They duly took the last wicket on the first ball of the penultimate over as Lightcliffe snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. Skipper Gaz Stevens said: “We are all gutted. Victory was there. And we lost it. In the blink of an eye. It's a good job I don't have a cat as I wasn't in the best of moods when I got home! Hopefully we can get it out of our system this weekend."

Defeat has left last season’s runners up in relegation slot and they will be hoping for better luck in a tough double header away at Hanging Heaton and Pudsey Congs this weekend.

FIRSTS BATTLE IN VAIN AT MORLEY

Yorkshire player Chris Taylor proved to be the main difference in this lower middle table match at Scratchard Lane.

He scored 85 and helped Morley build an imposing score on a big field. The first team lads stuck to their task well with wickets for all the bowlers and a good ground fielding display.

In reply, Jocky Wilson {43} James Horne {45} and classical cricketer and chair of selectors {39 no} all made useful contributions. And it was a glorious cover drive by Ramsey Al-Chalaby that brought up an extra bonus point in the late evening sunshine.

The firsts will be looking to put their losing run behind them this weekend in a game against free scoring Gomersal at Wakefield Road.

THIRDS MARCH ON UNDER POWE

Jim Powe's thirds are the only unbeaten team in the club after a 65 run win against Elland on Sunday.

On a glorious summer's day Powe had no hesitation in batting when the coin flipped down on the wrong side for the Elland Skipper. And it proved an astute decison from Powe, who is maturing by the week as a captain.

The thirds posted 265 with contributions right down the order including veteran Colin Saunders {49}, Yorkshire under 15 player Evan Edwards {53 not out}, hard hitting Ollie Hemingway {38} and the returning Ben Whiteley {23}. Yet, it was a Lightcliffe batsmen who only scored ten runs who took all the plaudits from both teams and a large summer sunday crowd.

Early in the innings James Flower nicked a swinging, seaming ball. However, only he and the wicket keeper had heard it. Despite a muted appeal, Flower put the bat under his arm and walked off. How refreshing. He deserved the standing ovation from spectators, players and umpires alike. It set the tone for the game to be played in a sporting manner. Later on, Tom Powe carried on the honest approach when he walked off after the ball hit the keepers' glove and hit the bail. Tom thought he had been bowled and despite no appeal at all, he ambled off. When told in the dressing room that he hadn't been bowled Tom's reply was unprintable!

In reply, Elland started fluently and were in the game on 110 for 1. However, under used spin bowlers James Powe and Michael Brooke pegged them back with some canny bowling. "Why don't they bowl more often?" more than one Elland spectator was heard to say.

There were wickets for Powe and James Godden, and then in their second spells the accurate Mark Whiley and Evan Edwards claimed two and four wickets respectively. Edwards was just too quick for the Elland middle order. Backed up by some sharp slip catching and an excellent catch by wicket keeper Will Gough, Elland finished on nine wickets down after some late resistance from Alistair Finn.

Despite the late 8.15pm finish, a good day's cricket was enjoyed by all. The thirds take their unbeaten run into the cup quarter finals next week against Blackley at Wakefield Road. Vice captain Mark Whiley said: "We are looking forward to it. We want to forget about last year. This is all about now. It should be a good game."

Players too slow to pay subs. What is to be done?{9.6.08}

The LCC committee was in a bullish mood last night with the threat of naming players who haven't paid their annual playing fees looming large.

Subs form an important part of the club's income, but too many players don't cough up quickly enough.

Please could all players get their subs to treasuer Dave Curran or any other committee member as soon as possible.

Dave said: "We need the monies. I appreciate that players might not see it as a top prioirty, but it is really important that we keep a steady flow of income. Thanks to those players who have paid for this year. Please could the others make every effort to pay in the next two weeks."

Pay up please and avoid being named and shamed!

Date for annual golf day confirmed {9.6.08}

The popular LCC golf day will once again be taking place at Lightcliffe Golf Club in early autumn.

This year the much anticipated annual event will be on Friday 3 October. As usual there will be two rounds of competitive golf, breakfast, lunch and evenig meal. All at a good price. Alcohol is an optional extra.

Further details will be released throughout the summer, but please put the date in your diaries!

For further details please contact golf organiser Paul Ramsden.

Latest news from U13s campaign {9.6.08}

Lightcliffe U13s v Undercliffe U13s 05-06-08

Lightcliffe fielded first and were met with two resilient openers, who stoked the ball around comfortably both going on to retire on 30. Lightcliffe’s bowling was not up to their usual standard and Undercliffe progressed well before losing their first wicket on 92 and finally reaching a total of 117 for 3. The 3 wickets were taken by James Lumb, Jasper Ayrton and Patrick Lathom-Sharp.

Lightcliffe came into bat facing a challenging target, but openers James Lumb and Max Sheldrake set about the task in positive fashion taking 21 from the first 5 overs. Lumb was then run out to a direct hit and the rot set in. Undercliffe brought on a series of good spin bowlers which decimated Lightcliffe’s upper order and they stuttered to 27-6 off 8 overs. From then on the target was always in doubt and Lightcliffe were eventually all out for 51. Top scorer was Max Sheldrake on 11.

Lightcliffe 51 ao Undercliffe 117-3

Club social night reminder {6.6.08}

A quick reminder that the popular LCC summer quiz will be taking place in the clubhouse on 21 June from approx 8.30pm unitl late.

With a wide range of refreshments, lovely pork baps and good company, is there a better way is there to spend midsummer's evening?

Come and enjoy a relaxing night in the willow team room and pit your wits against some of the finest eggheads in Lightcliffe.

Mr and Mrs Mark Wiley will be making their quiz mastering debut and are already working hard to come up with some unique teasers.

Please could along and support this club fund raiser. ALL WELCOME.

Entrance fee for adults is £5, which includes the quiz, hot supper and a raffle ticket. Maximum of six people in a team.

See you on the 21st!

For more information please contact Michael Brooke on 07799 418557.

Keep your mobiles switched on! {6.6.08}

Less than 48 hours before the wickets are pitched, third team skipper Jim Powe and his fellow selectors are still deciding the starting line up for Sunday's game at Wakefield Road.

James has just been in touch to say that the team will be selected this evening. All successful players will be notified by phone or text.

The third team captain said: "We have a lot of playere available and it's not been easy to decide on a starting eleven. That's why the team has not been released yet. It's a nice problem to have though.

"I can assure all the players that they will be notified by Bruce or me if they are have made the eleven."

Any player wondering if they are playing or not should contact James on his new mobile number 07792212488 or Bruce Lunn on 07768031742.

Test match cricket for less than £20! {3.6.08}

LCC is reaping the rewards from being a 'focus club' with an exclusive offer for members to watch test match cricket and still have change left from a crisp £20 note. For under 16s it's a bargain at £5.

Yes, Yorkshire County Cricket Club has exclusively been in touch with secretary Steve Hartley to say members can enjoy the 4th day of the much anticipated South African game for half price.

Club socialite Paul Ramsden has already indicated he will be going along. Mail him at paulramsden@tog24.com if you want to join the party. Full details of this stunning, not to be missed offer, below.

EXCLUSIVE CLUB OFFER FROM THE YORKSHIRE COUNTY CRICKET CLUB

Half price Test Match tickets! Only £5 for children!

England take on South Africa in the 2nd npower Test Match at Headingley Carnegie Cricket Ground and we would like to invite cricket club groups to come along to enjoy all the excitement on Day 4 (Monday 21st July 2008) at half price for adults and only £5 for children!

See Michael Vaughan, Kevin Pieterson and Matthew Hoggard in action in what promises to be a closely fought contest with the South Africans.

To take advantage of this fantastic offer please call the Yorkshire County Cricket Club Ticket Office on 0113 203 3623 and quote: FocusClubs1


Tickets available

West Stand – Adults £13.50 Children (under 16) £5.00

North Stand – Adults £16.50 Children (under 16) £5.00

More news from Kev Booth's under11s {3.6.08}

Lightcliffe Under 11s vs Spen Victoria. Sun 11th May

Straight bowling the key.
Spen Victoria 235-5 beat LCC 212-4 by 23 runs

This was a game where straight bowling was rewarded, deservedly won by a Spen side that bowled better and conceded 27 less extras.

Diminutive Lightcliffe newcomer 8 year old William Smith made sure it was not all one way, with 2 first innings wickets, assisted by a good catch from Regan Broadbent.

After a promising opening, Lightcliffe’s batting struggled in mid innings, where only 5 runs were scored in 7 overs.

The final pair of George Ayrton and James Hodkinson were left with a tall order to get 25 runs. The former was caught of his first ball, the 8 run penalty leaving them with an even more severe test.
Some good shots and brave running from the pair were rewarded with 24 runs, but 2 further dismissals, made the task to too great.



Lightcliffe Under 11s vs Great Horton Church. Sun 25th May

First success in exciting finish.
Great Horton Church 227-6 lost to LCC 229-4 by 2 runs

Catches win matches, but so can Run Outs. Some great fielding in the first innings kept Great Horton within reach and allowed Lightcliffe to overhaul the home side with one ball to spare.

A wicket for Jake Broadbent caught by Jordan Pickles who then clean bowled an opponent, set Lightcliffe up early on.
A direct hit from 15 yards by Jack Booth looked to put the clamps on their opponents, until Zain arrived on the field and clubbed 21 runs in short time.
Undaunted, alert fielding by George Ayrton, allowed Booth to run Zain out at the bowler’s end. Ayrton then “cleaned up” Zain bowled and next ball had a catch behind well taken by new keeper Ben Stega-Jones, to restrict the home side to 227.

Lightcliffe struggled against some good bowling by Arandip (3 wickets) in the first half of their innings and a win looked unlikely at mid stage.
An unbeaten 18 by Booth however, allowed last pair Ayrton and Pickles to see ‘Cliffe to a win, with Ayrton’s boundary through extra cover being decisive.







Lightcliffe Under 11s vs Great Horton Church. Sun 1st June

Rains halts return leg
Great Horton Church 267-5 . Game abandoned after first innings.

James Hodkinson’s wicket with his first ball was not the sign of things to come.
Neither he nor 8 year old Charlie Sutcliffe had played a week earlier, so it was no disgrace that they failed to stop Great Horton’s Zain, who this time slugged 31 in the opening 4 overs.

Jack Booth’s 3 wickets mid innings, looked to turn things Lightcliffe’s way until the final Great Horton pair put on 24, including many singles with somewhat dubious backing up tactics.

Credit to the 8 players, drenched by the light but persistent rain, which eventually stopped to match half way.

Brave effort from u13s against Spen Vic {3.6.08)

Lightcliffe Under 13s V Spen Victoria U13s 29-05-08

On a grey evening, Lightcliffe fielded first and were soon feeling the might of the first three Spen batsmen who all went on to retire. Some wayward bowling and good batting gave Spen Vic a start that appeared to be getting away from Lightcliffe. But once the top three had retired the Lightcliffe bowlers managed to peg things back a little with Jack Booth, on his debut taking two wickets. Harry Sutcliffe bowled tidily and Patrick Lathom-Sharp chipped in with a wicket. Scott Johnson took two good catches in the process. Spen Vic managed a substantial 139 for the loss of just 3 wickets

The Lightcliffe batsmen then had to face some pacey and accurate bowling from Spen Vic. Max Sheldrake (14) stroked some nice boundaries, before being well caught. James Lumb (4) skied one to the bowler, Jack Sheldrake (5) was caught and Scott Johnston (12) was run out to a direct throw. Harry Sutcliffe was stumped (0) which introduced Patrick Lathom-Sharp, who immediately got his head down and defended well, before attacking the loose ball. He had moved onto 17 when he hit a tame catch to the nearby fielders. Niall Cuttle chipped in with 7 before being yorked. Jack Booth (9 not out) and Ben Armitage (20 not out) then saw Lightcliffe to the end to finish some 25 runs short.

Lightcliffe 114-7 Spen Victoria 139-3

Under 11s round up

The Lightcliffe under 11 campaign is now in full swing under the expert stewardship of Kevin Booth. They have already played three games.

Below is a match reports from a game played against Northowram Fields earlier in the season. News of the latest two matches will be posted later in the week. Thanks to Kev for sending these reports through.

Lightcliffe Under 11s vs Northowram Fields. Sun 4th May.

LCC 236-2 lost by 6 Runs to Northowram 242-2

This was a creditable effort, by a novice Lightcliffe team, 7 of whom were playing their first ever competitive game and with ages ranging from 8 to 11.

The match was played in drizzle throughout and resulted in a damp Northowram pitch making run scoring difficult.
Lightcliffe batted first; Jordan Pickles and Will Smith performed steadily early on. The whole team tried to bat correctly, with the resultant loss of only 2 wickets, neither of which were due to poor shots.

The score of 236 was always a challenge against an older side.
Billy Hartley and particularly Charlie Sutcliffe bowled tightly early on.
With a steady flow of runs however, wickets were required.
When first Will Smith and then Jack Booth picked up one each, the game was finally balanced.
Ben Stega-Jones then caught the last man off Booth’s bowling, only for the square leg umpire to call No-ball!
The Northowram skipper Gledhill, then batted out a maiden to secure a narrow victory for the Home side.

Considering the inexperience of the team, it was an excellent effort to concede fewer Extras than the opposition and all should feel pleased to have run the home side so close.

Thirds make cup quarters {1.6.08}

Despite a cup wash out today at Rastrick the thirds are through to last eight after an unbeaten campaign.

The knock out stages begin in earnest in three weeks time. Congratulations to Jim Powe and his team who are on a mission to win the cup and make up for last year.

The 'bread and butter' of the league begins next Sunday with a home game at Wakfield Road.

Firsts crash at Keighley {1.6.08}

Despite dominating much of the first half of yesterday's game at Keighley, the firsts lost out by over 80 runs.

At one point Keighley were 70 for 6, but rallied to make 164 which proved beyond us. The bowling and fielding performance was excellent. Youngsters Joe Duffy (three wickets) and Sam Godden (two wickets) both bowled very well. There was a welcome return to the fold for James Horne. He bagged two wickets, two top catches and a league fielding point on his return. Not a bad first game. Aleem Ladak again bowled well, but only had one wicket for his reward. Dom Finn had the other.

In reply, the firsts faltered early on with Michael Brooke (second slip) and Javed Iqbal (LBW) back in the hut. Aussie Sean Robinson and Jocky Wilson rallied the score to 50 but when they went, caught behind and at first slip respectivley, wickets began to fell regularly.

Keighley bowled and fielded very well, taking three or four good catches and letting the ball do the work on a helpful wicket.

The firsts will be looking to get back to winning ways at Morley next week when skipper Richard Nichols returns.

Assistant captain Jocky Wilson, who has ably stood in, said: "I have enjoyed the experience but i'm looking forward to Richard returning and taking the helm again."

A few photos of the firsts game at Keighley and trip to Fannys in the photos section.

Seconds are second {1.6.08}

It was a disappointing day at Wakefield Road for Gaz Stevens's second team.

After being inserted to bat, the seconds struggled against a lively seam attack. Steve Hartley hit a fluent 20 but was unable to match last week's effort. There was a welcome return to the team for 'Bull Dog' Rick Powe and he hit an entertaining 60 odd not out in our total of just over 150. However, the consenus at the interval was that it was 50 short. So it proved.

Despite seasoned players Roger Stead and Mark Wiley picking up a wicket apiece Cleckheaton eased to their target by eight wickets.

Gaz said: "It was a good toss for them to win. We battled away, but it just wasn't our day. We are looking to get back to winning ways next week."

For full details of the second team's performance click on the JCT Bradford League Website, where there is a full scorecard.

Flaming June? {1.6.08}

And ghastly through the drizzling rain
On the bald streets breaks the blank day

It's looking like the third team's crunch cup tie at Rastrick is going to be a victim of the wet start to June.

Throughout the morning it has poured from the clouds. It could be an afternoon of cards for Jim Powe and his team.

However, Jim has just confirmed that an abandoned game should see the thirds take their place in the cup quarter finals.

The third team skipper was still crunching the figures as went to press but was quietly confident that his team had qualified.

We will be posting later if the thirds make it on to the pitch.........

It's all go for Jim Powe

It has been quite a start to the 2008 campaign for third team skipper and all round good club man Jim Powe.

For the first two weeks of May he watched the rain come down and wondered if his third team charges would ever get on the pitch.

He has made up for lost time since then. James has led the third team on a glorious unbeaten run. They have already booked their place in the cup quarter final and are looking to go one better than last year.

In between his mission to lead the thirds to cup glory, he has also made his first team debut. He got a few runs and impressed in the field during last Monday's defeat to Bankfoot.

However, it is the Halifax Cup that is occupying James's mind. Last season he was cruelly robbed of the chance of cup final glory after Halifax league rules were, er, allegedly broken.

It would indeed be a bitter-sweet moment if Powe got his hands on that trophy this time around.

The thirds have a mixture of youth and expereince in their ranks. Seasoned campaigners Kev Booth, Jez Latham-Sharp*, Mark Wiley and Colin Saunders line up alongside younger players like Ben Oakland, Tom Gorringe, Ollie Hemmingway and veteran of many a third team campaign, Tom Powe.

Last Sunday at Southowram Mark Wiley bagged three wickets and Gorringe and Hemmingway both got 50s in our reply. Powe brothers Tom and James helped see the 3rds home. With the other member of the Powe clan, 'Bull Dog' Rick Powe joining the ranks on Sunday, the odds on Powe lifting the cup in July are shortening by the week.

James said: "I am taking each game as it comes, but we have some good players and I hope the unbeaten run can continue into June and beyond."

The 3rds are away at Rastrick this Sunday starting at 2pm.

*Can anyone remember the last time LCC was represented by someone with a double-barrel name? Perhaps one for club historian Bob Horne to answer.

Arise Sir Stuart

Hopefully regular LCC web users will have noticed things gathering pace in the last few days with more news, more photos and more information.

We know some people (you know who you are!) have been wanting things posting quicker. That is now happening.

Thanks the hard graft over the weekend by Stu Crosher, posting news, photos, info, fantasy league and statistics is simplier and faster. There will be something added every day. Keep logging on so you don't lose out on your diet of Wakefield Road news.

And, you can now access the LCC web from your mobile phone. Very useful if you are bombing up the M6 or the East Coast Mainline and want to know if you have the weekend's team. To access LCC teams on your mobile phone the link is www.lightcliffecricketclub.co.uk/mobile.php. And, if you are in Cornwall or Crete, Filey or the Falklands, the LCC web will only be a click of your mobile away. The next stage of our five year plan is advertising.

The genius's behind the site Al and Stu Crosher deserve a big thanks from everyone at the club. Rod Heyhoe says the league webmaster has voted our site the best design in the league. Praise indeed.

You are either behind or ahead of the Lightclffe web page. We don't stand still.

(If you own a phone with a barcode reader, scan this image to get the link on your phone.)

Quiz night at the Club!

Once again, after overwhelming public demand, the Club will having a summer quiz night.

The date for your diaries is SATURDAY JUNE 21st. The quiz will begin at approximately 8.30pm and will be in the pavillion. There will be a supper provided and the usual refreshments will be served in the home dressing room. Please try and boost the club coffers by enjoying a pleasant evening in the club house. What better way to enjoy the summer solstice?

Please tell your friends and family and invite them along to this popular event.

Third team pace ace Mark Wiley will be making his 'quizmaster debut' and posing the questions. After winning the quiz far too often in recent years, we thought the best way for someone else to win would be go get him to ask the questions.

Mark said: "It's a daunting challenge but one i'm looking forward to."

See you on the 21st!

U13s victorious in the cup

Lightcliffe U13s v Farsley U13s 23-5-08

Farsley batted first, and made a shaky start losing 3 wickets in the first 4 overs for just 13 runs. From that point on though, they made steady progress with some powerful hitting from a couple of competent batsmen. Smart Lightcliffe bowling and fielding was again the order of the day with the whole team making a contribution. 3 catches (two by U11 player George Ayrton and one by Ben Armitage) helped to keep the wickets falling as Farsley made their way to 86-9 from their 20 overs. Best bowling was from Jack Sheldrake with 2-10 from his 3 overs, including a hat-trick chance.

Lightcliffe came into bat facing their highest target of the season so far. Losing early wickets is becoming a habit and true to form, 2 fell in the first over. Things settled down and the run-rate was matched with Patrick Wild (32 rtrd) and James Lumb (25 no) playing sensibly throughout most of the innings. The target was finally passed in the 19th over, giving Lightcliffe a narrow but deserved victory and a second round match against Woodlands.

Farsley 86-9 Lightcliffe 90-4

Hero Hartley hits a hundred..........but its a double defeat for the twos.

Lightcliffe 2nd X1 v E Bierley 2nd X1 24 May 2008
Lightcliffe 2nd X1 v Woodlands 2nd X1 26 May 2008

Lightcliffe’s second string had a disappointing Bank Holiday weekend against strong opposition but there were a personal truimph for player secretary Steve Hartley on Saturday.

Steve blasted the ball to all parts of the East Bierley ground on his way to a magnifient 107. He shared yet another good opening stand with Rob Crookes.

Away to East Bierley on Saturday the Wakefield Road side were looking to inflict a first defeat of the season on the League leaders and prove a point after the narrow loss of the title to them last year.

Crookes and Hartley once again opened for Lightcliffe and looked on for their second consecutive 100 partnership before Crookes fell for 48 with the score on 96, injuring himself in the process.

As usual the second team lads's running went into Laurel and Hardy mode for a while. There were just the couple of run outs on Saturday.

After running our skipper Stevens, Hartley clearly felt the responsibility to stick around and went on to make a chanceless 107 before getting involved in a run out mix up which saw himself as vicitm. With handy contributions from Alex Tait and Ollie Hemingway who both made 22 the visitors notched up a challenging 242 for 9 in their 50 overs.

Tait and promising Yorkshire U15 newcomer Evan Edwards opened the bowling in reply and soon had the useful Simpson, Brook and Owens back in the pavilion with only 21 on the board. When the Bierley skipper Anderson was bowled by Tom Powe to put the champions on 99 for 6 with just 20 overs to go Lightcliffe looked set for a good victory. It wasn’t to be though as Elllis came in and blasted an unbeaten 89, with his first 50 in just 26 balls, to steal a win for the home side.

A much depleted team travelled to Woodlands on Monday with just four of the Saturday side available. The weakened attack never got on top and the Oakenshaw side blasted their way to 299 for 4 in 50 overs with the wickets taken by Amir Yaqub (2) and one each for Mark Duffy and returning Wakefield Road legend Andy Pullan. With six frontline batsmen either promoted or unavailable this was always going to be too tall an order for Lightcliffe. They battled away well however with skipper Gareth Stevens leading the way with 55, warhorse Kevin Booth with 28, young Ollie Hemingway a promising 33 and Pullan himself with an unbeaten 32. The final score of 188 for 7 in the allotted 50 overs was no disgrace but a long way short.

Selection Chairman Bruce Lunn will be hoping for better availability this Saturday as the team look to return to winning ways at home to local rivals Cleckheaton. Has Bruce got his wish? The teams have now been picked so click on the teams section to see who has made this weekend's line ups.

Fantasy fun comes to the web

The days of fantasy league e-mail round ups from LCC fantasy president James Horne will soon be a thing of the past.

From this week, James will be posting all the fantasy news and tables on the web. So you'll have to get logging on to the site to see who is up and who is down. Who is the Manchester United of the LCC league? And who is the Halifax Town? Keep logging on to find out!

Fantasy news. Every week. Only on lightcliffecricketclub.co.uk

Please note: Lightcliffe Fantasy league is copyright James Horne 2005. Beware of imitations.

Crooko vows to make quick comeback

In-form Rob Crookes had an interesting exit from the pitch at East Bierley on Saturday after his dismissal for a fine 48.

The popular wicket keeper batsmen had to be carried from the pitch by his team mates, after picking up a nasty leg injury and collapsing in a heap on the turf.

"For a minute it looked really bad" said skipper Gaz Stevens. "Hopefully Rob will be back in the mix shortly."

We caught up with Rob today who was relaxing on his half-term week. He said he was hoping to be back in action in the next few weeks.

Rob said: "It's badly bruised. There's some deeper bruising that hasn't come out yet possibly near the bone. It's getting better, a little better, all the time."

We wish Rob a speedy recovery as his opening partnership with Steve Hartley has been the key to the seconds' healthy totals.

Very very windy

It was a blustery Bank Holiday Monday at Wakefield Road as the first team lost at home to Bankfoot.

There was plenty of action off the pitch as well, with the sightscreens blowing over on numerous occassions.

The umpires had to leave their changing rooms, the game was played without bails, and the top of the pavillion almost blew off! Luckily a think tank of Kieron Nalton and other Brods players was on hand to get on the roof and carry out urgent repairs.

On the pitch it was difficult for the umpires to hear snicks, so players from both teams entered into the spirit of things by walking when they hit the ball.

Oh, and we lost by nine wickets.

Catch all the action on the photos section.

Rod gets some deserved press coverage

Last autumn, when the club website was still in its infancy, we reported the news that Lightcliffe stalwart and head groundsman Rod Heyhoe had deservedly won the Bradford League 'lifetime achievement' award. This is the most prestigious award in league circles.

However, it didn't really get the LCC website coverage it should have done. It's time to put that right.

Readers of yesterday's Telegraph and Argus newspaper would have noticed a lovely piece on Rod and the work he does at Lightcliffe. The link at the bottom of this page takes you to the article. It's difficult to add to the wording.

There have already been dozens of games at Wakefield Road this season and, from under 11s to first team, the wickets have all been prepared by Rod.

We perhaps don't always appreciate the hard work that is done by Rod to get games on. If this weekend's belting wickets are anything to go by, then long may Rod's commitment to LCC continue.

Keep up the good work Roders!

Rods press coverage

P.s. if the link doesn't work just copy and paste it into your browser or go to the Telegraph and Argus website and search Rod Heyhoe.

Report on under 13s game away v PSL

Lightcliffe U13s v Pudsey St Lawrence U13s 22-5-08

Lightcliffe opted to bat first but were immediately met by some quick and accurate bowling by Pudsey. Three wickets fell in the third over and things were not looking good. Again however, things were steadied by the partnership of Jasper Ayrton and James Lumb who batted through to the end of the 20 overs. The total never really got going though and Lightcliffe finished on 50-4, Ayrton run-out trying for a last gasp quick single off the last ball of the innings. Top scorer was James Lumb on 25 not out.

Pudsey set about their task straight away scoring 20 from the first 2 overs. In the end, Pudsey comfortably made their target for the loss of two wickets.


Lightcliffe 50-4 Pudsey St Lawrence 54-2

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Lightcliffe 2nd X1 v Farsley 2nd X1.

Lightcliffe’s second string got back on the winning trail with an exciting last over victory against arch rivals Farsley.

Farsley took first knock on an overcast day during which rain interruptions would reduce the match to 43 overs per side. Under 15 Yorkshire trialist Evan Edwards bowled with good control and swing early on and got his reward by removing Frankland. Evergreen Roger Stead took the next two before an excellent direct hit run out by Ramsey Al Chalaby reduced Farsley to 83 for 4. Some sloppy fielding allowed the visitors to get away to 145 before Stead picked up two more to finish with 4 for 45 and Edwards returned to take a second scalp. Farsley finished on a creditable 190 for 7 on another good Rod Heyhoe track.

Keeper Rob Crookes and club Secretary Steve Hartley opened up for the home side and, after a couple of early scares against the new ball, soon looked in command. Crookes raced to 50 in just 54 balls with some fluent strokeplay and the pair put together a 100 partnership in the 22nd over. However, when Hartley fell to Horner for 33 and Crookes followed leg before the next ball for 68, 104 for 0 soon became 104 for 4 as Mick Wood and Joe Duffy were both dismissed without scoring. Experienced pair Gareth Stevens and Amir Yaqub then started to repair the damage with some sensible batting to take the total to 167 before Stevens was caught for 28. With victory in sight and 24 needed from six overs the Wakefield Roaders suffered a touch of the jitters losing two more wickets before Yaqub hit 6 off the first two balls of the final over to take his score to 42 and secure a satisfying win and 16 valuable points. Rob Crookes said: “I was chuffed with the win and my knock. I am feeling good at the moment; keeping my balance and letting the ball come to me. The whole team is buzzing and the mood in the camp is one of quiet confidence going into the double header weekend."

The team will be looking to take this form into a tough Bank Holiday weekend double header away at East Bierley and Woodlands.

Halifax League Under 15s show the new motto that held catches win matches is true!

The Halifax League Under 15s team have begun their season with two strong performances away from home, comfortably beating Clayton and Blackley. The most outstanding feature of both victories has been the excellent fielding & catching ability within the team. Kristian Sharples and Marcus Kelly have held several sharp chances as well as bowling aggressively. At Blackley, in the cup match, 9 catches out of 9 were taken- all of them outstanding- and no drops. There is a good team spirit developing under the leadership of Oliver Holden and he and Sam Kalanovic have led from the front as senior players, both retiring on 30 at Blackley.

Lightcliffe U13 truimph over Northowram.

Northowram batted first, and made reasonable progress making 27 without loss from their first 7 overs. From that point on though, the match swung in Lightcliffe’s favour. A direct hit run out by Max Sheldrake started the wickets falling.

Smart Lightcliffe bowling and fielding was the order of the day with the whole team making a contribution including further run outs from Jack Sheldrake and a Ben Armitage/Niall Cuttle combination. Two catches by Jasper Ayrton and accurate bowling from the bowlers helped bowl Northowram out for 46. Best bowling was again by James Lumb with a repeat of his previous week’s 3-3.

Lightcliffe came into bat needing just over 2 an over, but for the third match in a row lost a wicket in the first over. Progress was steady from then on with the total creeping up comfortably, Patrick Wild contributing a useful 14.

But then 3 wickets fell in 8 balls and things were not quite so rosy. The ship was however steadied, and the winning runs hit in the 14th over with a classic cover drive for 4 from Jasper Ayrton who top-scored on 21 not out.

Northowram Fields 46 all out Lightcliffe 49-5

Lightcliffe Under 12's VS. Buttershaw St. Pauls. Played Wed 14th May.

The under 12's played their first match this week in the Gordon Bowers competition. Batting first against some steady accurate bowling they were restricted to 31 runs but in the process lost 5 wickets. Buttershaw bowling remained quite accurate and they conceded only 15 extras. When Buttershaw came in to bat, progress was initially slow and Lightcliffe bowlers, combined with some good catching, took 3 early wickets and at one time it looked as if Lightcliffe might just sneak a win as they took 2 more wickets. But is was not to be, Buttershaw took their total runs to 32 and Lightcliffe conceded 32 extras.

Final Scores:
Lightcliffe 206 for 5 wickets. Buttershaw 224 for 5 wickets.

Training details confirmed.

Training sessions for all ages are now underway at LCC. The details are:-

Monday nights – Under 12’s and under 13’s. From 6pm to 7.30pm.
For more details please ring Phil Dodd (Under 12’s) on 0113 255 6183 or 07891 702 563 or Mark Wild (under 13’s) on 01422 203514 or 07974 818 659.

Tuesday nights – First, second, and third teams. From 6pm. For more information please contact Bruce Lunn on 07768031742.

Friday nights – Under 11s. From 6.15pm to 7.30pm. Please contact Kevin Booth on 07770 867162.

Under 15 and Under 17 practices are to be confirmed shortly. Watch this space. Please contact team managers below for more information:-

Under 15’s (Halifax) Richard Edwards 01422 205741.
07890 448 532.

Under 15’s (Bradford) Mark Duffy 01484 380359.
07785 788 780.

Under 17’s Will Knight. 01484 720 571.

For any more details on practice nights and midweek activities at the club please mail michaeljbrooke@btinternet.com

Match report from Lightcliffe U13s v Cleckheaton U13s.

Finally, after a week of rain, Lightcliffe Juniors played a match!

Cleckheaton batted first on a soft but well prepared wicket. After a shaky start Cleck ground their way to 63-5 from their 20 overs with a late flurry from a big hitting batsman boosting their score. Wickets were shared amongst the bowlers and some good fielding from the whole team kept the score down.

Lightcliffe came into bat needing just over 3 an over, but were shocked by a wicket in the first over. They then settled down making steady, unhurried progress, preferring to play safe rather than take risky singles or hit wildly. The winning run was hit by Max Sheldrake in the 16th over. Top scorer was Patrick Wild on 27no.

Cleckheaton 63-5 Lightcliffe 65-1.

Firsts out of cup and 2nds bow out at shield first hurdle.

Decimated by first team call ups and unavailability Lightcliffe 2nds crashed out of the Priestley Shield at the first hurdle.

With just three members of Saturday’s winning combination at Bowling Old Lane available cricket supremo Bruce Lunn drafted in five of the talented under 15 side for second X1 debuts and asked groundsman Rod Heyhoe to dust down his trusty willow to make a comeback fourteen years after hanging up his boots.

Heyhoe had been working from 7am to get the ground playable after Sunday’s washout and worked miracles to get a game on at all. Put in to bat, Lightcliffe suffered an early blow when stand in skipper Steve Hartley edged one on to his own stumps. Marcus Kelly and Kris Sharples batted sensibly in tricky conditions before both were dismissed by Shane Marshall. Rod Heyhoe was looking comfortable before he too dragged one on to leave the home side struggling on 21 for 4. However, Amir Yaqub had started to look in control by then and, aided by a quickfire 22 from Alex Tait and an accomplished 14 from Tom Powe, he helped take the score to 122 before Powe fell leg before. Yaqub succumbed soon after for an excellent 62, his maiden Lightcliffe half century. Sam Kalanovich, Tom Denham and Jack Walsh all fell cheaply as only two further runs were added to leave a target of 124.Opening bowlers Tait and Powe contained Idle well but were let down by some poor catching. It was Yaqub who picked up the first wicket before Powe got his just rewards thanks to a sharp catch behind the stumps by Kalanovich. The home side never really got on top and,despite a smart run out by Hartley who also took a catch to earn Sharples his first second X1 wicket and himself the fi elding point, Idle got home comfortably with six wickets and 17 overs in hand.

The first team lost by 8 wickets at Idle after being bowled out for 46. The least said about that the better!

Silver Fox and Tom Powe help bowl 2nds to victory.

Lightcliffe’s second string got back to the winning ways of last season with a comfortable victory at Bowling Old Lane.

Opting to bowl in overcast conditions youngsters Joe Duffy and Evan Edwards took the new ball. Both bowled with great control and accuracy taking a wicket apiece to reduce Old Lane to 17 for 2 after the first 10 over burst. Roger Stead and the guile of Tom Powe then proved no less difficult to get away with some accurate medium pace bowling and the home side stuttered to 41 for 5. Only Rifaqat Ali provided any resistance with an unbeaten 51 as Powe and Stead took three wickets each with Duffy and Edwards sharing four and the West Bowling side eventually reaching 128 for 9 in the allotted 50 overs.

Rob Crookes and Steve Hartley opened up the Lightcliffe reply and were soon in command. With some good fortune and plenty of fluent strokeplay they took the score to 69 before Hartley failed to clear mid on and perished for a useful 44 including seven fours and one six. When Crookes eventually went for 21 the outcome already wasn’t in much doubt. Skipper Gareth Stevens batted patiently for 15 and ex Brighouse new recruit Richard Thompson making a polished unbeaten 16, as the Wakefield Road side recorded an emphatic six wicket victory with 14 overs to spare.

Another Six wickets for Nichols as first team beat Undercliffe

A match winning spell of bowling from skipper Richard Nichols was the highlight of the first team’s win over big spending Undercliffe.

The captain took six for 31 from 15 overs, as Undercliffe collapsed in their pursuit of Lighcliffe’s 156.

Aleem Ladak and Dean Heyhoe were also amongst the wickets in a superb bowling and fielding display.

Earlier, most Lightcliffe batsmen contributed with the willow but none could go on to make a really big score. Nick Pyrah hit a fine 37, but was hampered by a knee injury and had to bat with a runner. The firsts were grateful to some late blows from Dom Finn (35 not out) to help get them to a respectable score.

Powe ponders then calls off

Third team skipper James Powe was an early arrival at the Wakefield Road Ground on Sunday to assess the scene. It was a soggy sight. After musing for an hour, skipper Powe decided the ground was unfit to play. He said: “It’s pretty gutting because it was the opening day and my charges were raring to go. I am looking forward to getting underway on Sunday.”

Seconds Stumble

Lightcliffe 2nd X1, runners up in last year’s first division race, started the season with a disappointing defeat at Pudsey.

Opting to bowl on a green looking track youngsters Sam Godden and debutant Joe Duffy took the new ball. St Lawrence skipper James Milligan showed why he regularly finishes near the top of the League averages with some fluent stroke play to take the home side to 50 without loss. By this stage the pairing of experienced Roger Stead and youthful Tom Powe had started to stem the flow of runs and it was Stead who struck the first blow of the season with a good lbw shout. Milligan followed soon after deceived by a full length delivery from Powe. It wasn’t until Powe had given way to Amir Yaqub that the next wicket fell and, with Stead striking again soon after Pudsey were left at 110 for 4. Yaqub continued to peg away and picked up two more scalps and then it was left up to Godden and Duffy to return to return to claim two victims each to dismiss the home side for 187 in one over short of the alloted 50.

Club Secretary Steve Hartley opened up the Lightcliffe reply with 3rd X1 skipper Jim Powe. Powe went first, trapped leg before, to see the advent of skipper Gareth Stevens. The experienced pair took the total up to 40 in amongst some wayward bowling before Hartley played round a straight one.

Under 15 newcomer Ollie Hemmingway played a couple of nice strokes before he and Stevens fell in quick succession to leave the visitors struggling at 50 for 4. Duffy and Javed Iqbal then combined to play some fluent strokes in Lightcliffe’s most fruitful partnership of the day, adding xx for the fifth wicket, before Duffy holed out at backward square for a useful 24. Stead joined Iqbal, who was by now playing with real confidence and the Wakefield Rd side started to scent a victory before a mystifying leg before decision removed Iqbal for 27 to leave them on 116 for 6. Lightcliffe never really recovered from this set back and, despite a couple of defiant blows from Ramsey Al Chalaby, stumbled to 136 all out in 38 overs to lose by 51 runs.

With a double header next weekend the team will be looking for the return of a couple of experienced campaigners including vice captain and keeper Rob Crookes.

Opening day defeats for firsts and seconds. Thirds washed out.

It was a disappointing opening weekend for our three senior teams.

The first team was on top throughout most of the game against Idle, but crashed to a 20 run defeat.

Skipper Richard Nichols was the pick of the bowlers with a fine spell of bowling, including three wickets in one over. He ended with six wickets for 27 runs. Aussie Shaun Robinson, Dean Heyhoe and Aleem Ladak were also amongst the wickets. As the Lightcliffe players tucked into a pleasing tea they were confident of victory.

An opening stand of 41, with Nick Pyrah making a useful 24, seemed to be helping the first to wickets. However, a steady shutter of wickets at crucial times, saw Idle snatch an unlikely victory. The firsts will be hoping for better this weekend at home to Undercliffe (1.30pm start) and away to Idle in the Priestley Cup on Sunday (1.30pm Start).

Vice captain Jonathan Wilson said: “We were in control of the game for much of the day, which augers well for the rest of the campaign. It was a shame to lose but there were many positives to take from the match.”

We’re back!

For LCC web addicts the last 72 hours have been agony.

Due to unforeseen technical difficulties the Web has been down. Thanks to round the clock work these have been overcome. Apologies to everyone but we are now back on line!

We hope you are continuing to log on and enjoy the site.

Yours sincerely,

The LCC Web Team management.board.

Packed practice nights at HQ

The cold and damp April evenings have failed to deter LCC players from turning up for outdoor practice sessions in their droves.

Last Tuesday evening saw an excellent turnout of players. New signings Aussie Shaun Robinson and gloveman Mark Horne had their first workout and seemed to enjoy their new surrounds.

Despite a damp practice pitch, a net session was possible thanks to Rod Heyhoe’s hard work in making sure the wicket was playable. A big thanks to Rod.

Images from practice sessions.

Race night helps boost club bank balance

The club raised over £300 on Saturday night after an enjoyable race evening at the Whitehall Pub, Hipperholme.

Players, committee members and locals packed into the popular pub for a pleasant evening of drinking, betting and conversation.

A big thanks to everyone who attended and supported the club. A special mention to Dave Curran, Steve Hartley and Robert Brooke for running the Tote, and to Roger Stead for doing the organising, raffle selling, and donating most of the raffle prizes! All the prizes were claimed on the night.

The club would also like to extend a big thanks to Margaret and Paul at the Whitehall. They kindly let us hold the race night at their pub. We hope to be back next year for another fund-raiser.

Treasurer Dave Curran said: “We are still totting up how much we raised but it was a good amount which made the event worthwhile.

“There was a good turnout from the club and everyone seemed to have a good night.”

Rallying call for players to practice this weekend

Chair of cricket Bruce Lunn has contacted players this week to tell them about early season practice arrangements. Please see his mail below.

Guys,

Given the recent inclement weather the earliest opportunity we're going to have to practise outdoors is Saturday 12th April. Richard wants to replicate match conditions as much possible by practising on the bottom of the square and having first team bowlers bowling to first team batters, second team bowlers to second team batters etc etc. If the weather has not been good enough and there is a risk of damaging the square we will practise in the nets instead.

Either way please can we all make the effort to turn up for a 1pm start. It's a good chance to get used to those early season conditions, get your eye in, get the long hops out of the way and meet up with everyone again. Please let me, Richard or Gareth know if you can't make it.

Richard email to: richardmnichols@talktalk.net
Gareth email to: gs@hethertons.co.uk
Me email to: jbswlunn2000@waitrose.com

We'll have further outdoor practices on Tuesday 15th and Thursday 17th ahead of our first game on Saturday 19th. Sean Robinson, our Australian overseas, will be arriving on Monday 14th. I hope you will all make him very welcome!!

Brucie Lunn.

Countdown to the season

A big apology to all regular LCC website addicts for the lack of story action over the last week or so.

A full service will be resumed next week; watch out for:-

1. The return of fantasy league. Now in its fourth season! Exclusive details on how to enter. Only at www.lightcliffecricketclub.co.uk

2. Pre season preview with profiles of the new players.

3. Opening day teams.

4. News of next week’s race night. Saturday 19 April at the Whitehall. 8pm. Please put it in your diaries and come along and support the club!

Log in again from Monday. You will not be disappointed.

Cricket-force workers work wonders

The sun shone; the rain came down; the snow fell. But the work went on.

Yes, over fifteen people brave helpers soldiered on in the elements last weekend at Wakefield Road to help get the ground in shape for the new season. They deserve huge thanks.

As part of the national Cricket force weekend, a gang of volunteers painted, rolled, and repaired. The ground looked a picture on Sunday evening.

Organiser Steve Hartley said he was delighted with the turnout. He said: “There was a good turnout and the people who came along really grafted for the cause. Without such sterling help the ground would simply have not been ready for the new season.

“There is only so much Rod can do; the work last weekend complemented the hours and hours he has put in over the close season to get the ground ready.”

A big thanks to Steve for organising the weekend and thanks to all those who helped out. You know who you are!

Easter snow but sunny outlook for new season - 27/03/2008

A covering of Easter snow may have given a festive look to the Wakefield Road pitch last weekend but cricket chair Brucie Lunn has a spring in his step as the new season approaches.

With new signings in place (further details to be announced shortly. Keep logging on!) Bruce says the “pieces of the jigsaw are falling into place”.

Along with returning batting ace Nick Pyrah, a top Australian all rounder and a new glove man, Bruce is still delving into his contacts book to try and catch a paceman to fill the boots of Richard Tesseyman. Turbo is heading for a new challenge at Southowram.

Bruce said: “Things are falling into place. We will have a couple more indoor sessions before heading outside for some pre season work on the soggy April wickets.

“The winter nets have been well attended and I am sure that all three senior teams will be competitive this season.”

Brucie also heard from opening bat Rod Hinch this week. Rod has work commitments for much of the summer and can’t commit to Saturday cricket. He will be playing a bit of evening league cricket over in East Yorkshire. He is, however, planning to pop over the Wolds on 19 April to watch the opening match at Spen Vic before heading to the race night.

May the cricket force be with you

LCC players and officials are being urged to sacrifice their weekend lie-ins to help get the ground looking in tip top shape for the new season.

The second annual cricket force weekend will be Sat 5 and Sun 6 April from 10am-4pm. The Grand National starts at 4.20 so horse lovers will have plenty of spare seconds to get home in time for the much anticipated Aintree chase.

There are a number of important jobs to do. So if you can plaster, paint, or mow, your services will be much appreciated.

Head groundsman Rod Heyhoe and Player-secretary Steve Hartley are organising the day of action.

Rod, well tanned after two weeks in the sunshine, said: “We need as many people as possible to come along and help us out.

“The more bodies there are the quicker the work will get done. We need doers not talkers; anyone with practical skills has a part to play. The curtain raiser is rapidly approaching and there is a lot of work to do.”

There will be refreshments served, including Steve Hartley’s speciality bacon butties. Please make every effort to turn up on one of the days, even if it’s for an hour or so.

For more information please contact Steve at steve.hartley@virgin.net

Under Starter's Orders for LCC Race Night

Forget the excitement of Cheltenham or the thrills and spills of the Grand National – the highlight of the racing calendar is fast approaching.

Yes, back by popular demand after last year’s success, the club will be holding a race night on SATURDAY 19 APRIL at the popular Whitehall Pub, Hipperholme.

The first social event of the summer will be a good chance for players, spectators and friends to get together after the eagerly awaited opening day games. The fun begins at 8pm.

The races will be beamed across the pub on state-of-the art television screens. Please make every effort to attend this event and support the cricket club. Put it in your diaries today!

Treasurer Dave Curran, fresh from his Cheltenham Gold Cup day out, said it was important people turned out to boost the club’s coffers.

Dave said: “We have some big outgoings in the next few weeks, so it’s important to give the credit side of the balance sheet a gee up.

“Last year the race night raised over £300 and was very well attended by players after the first game of the season. We are looking for a repeat show.”

The club would like to thank Margaret and Paul at the Whitehall for kindly allowing us to hold the race night in their pub. It promises to be an enjoyable evening.

Bob Horne on George Bottomley

Bob Writes, "This is a sad moment in the club's history. George's contribution to Lightcliffe Cricket was considerable. I have a number of statistics of his playing career but, as is almost always the case, they don't give an adequate impression of his stature as a cricketer.

He made his first team debut in 1933, although he had a couple of seasons with the seconds before that. George grew up in Hove Edge and was brought to the club by two fellow Hove Edge residents and Lightcliffe cricketers, Charlie Young and the legendary Albert Hartley. He retired from league cricket in 1962 and, after three seasons with Craven Gentlemen, turned to his other sporting love, golf.

In 333 matches for Lightcliffe he scored 3967 runs, took 508 wickets and held 102 catches. Like so many young man of his generation, the war interrupted his sporting life and he only played seven games in the 41-45 period.

Peacetime brought about his best ever season. In 1947 he scored 571 runs and took 70 wickets. He then enjoyed three years as professional with Meltham in the Huddersfield League. In 1948 he scored a century in the Sykes Cup Final, and fondly recalled how his collection of more than £100 had to be kept overnight at Fartown police station because it weighed so much! After four seasons back at Lightcliffe he had a spell with Pudsey St. Lawrence (55-58), including a Priestley Cup Final against Lightcliffe (LCC won!).

Many people will have their own memories of George. I recall him as a medium-paced outswing bowler with a good off-cutter, although I never saw him in his prime as a batsman. I was well acquainted with this off-cutter because, playing for Hipperholme Grammar School against Craven Gentlemen in 1963, I was bowled by one! My impression of George, having seen a good deal of him during his last years at Lightcliffe, is that he was a shrewd and confident cricketer, able to outwit less thoughtful opponents.

In George's time, as now, players were not allowed to practise after the start of a game. However, if Lightcliffe were batting second, George sometimes got his son Michael and me to bowl at him during the tea interval! Who could complain about a bloke encouraging youngsters to play cricket? He offered us sixpence if we hit the stumps, so of course we tried like hell. I remember bowling him out once, down where the nets are today. I got my sixpence and went away happy. It wasn't until reflecting on this in later years that I realised that George probably missed the ball on purpose. That would have been typical of the man, always kindly encouraging, but he never let on.

George was also a prominent local footballer, playing with Lightcliffe in the County Amateur League, although my dad remembered him as a ginger-haired sixteen year-old playing on the right wing for Clifton. You'll know his story of Arsenal wanting to sign him (this is Herbert Chapman's 1930's team, which won the old first division in three successive seasons!): the MD at Firth's (where George worked) called him into his office and talked him out of it!

His contribution to cricket at Lightcliffe on and off the pitch is hard to put into words. George was associated with the club throughout most of the 20th century. It really is the end of an era."

R M Horne.

George Bottomley

The last chapter in the remarkable life of George Bottomley has closed after his sad death at the age of 92. The Club has lost a one its greatest servants.

Legend is an over-used term. Not in George’s case. If anything it fails to do justice to his decades of sporting achievement. Whether as player, committee man or Chairman his contribution to Lightcliffe Cricket was enormous.

He quickly broke into the Lightcliffe first team after joining the club as a teenager. In 1933 he made his first team debut and quickly made a name for himself as a talented all-rounder, comfortable and classy with both bat and ball. George was also a talented footballer playing at a good standard for many years.

Revered throughout the Bradford League and beyond, his long service at Wakefield Road, was broken by a spell as pro at Pudsey St Lawrence. He cricket career won him many friends. George conducted himself off the field as he did on it. Polite, courteous, and respectful.

The curtain fell on three decades of achievement in 1963 when pulled on his whites for the last time. It had been decades of runs, records and cherished memories.

There is a saying that retired cricketers don’t die, they just fade away. George proved the inaccuracy of such sentiments. He became a committee man and hard-working official and in the early 1980s assumed the Chairmanship, a position he held until he stood down in 1998. Even then, he regularly turned up at committee meetings as a reassuring presence offering sound advice, and wise words.

He was also a key member of the gala committee, helping, along with Robert and Margaret Firth, to kick start the annual fund-raiser in 1987. Indeed, the layout of the stalls today is still based on the vision George had 20 years ago. Even in his latter years, he would dust off his gala plan and come down to the ground on a Sunday morning to show everyone how it should be done. Lovely memories.

Today, when you ask older members how good George was, you hear the same reaction; saying just what a talent he was. This is not misplaced sentiment, but an appreciation of one of the most natural and gifted players to represent Lightcliffe and one of the finest cricketers of his generation.

AGM - Report

At the recent AGM player-secretary Steve Hartley posted his annual report on the club.

The bumper report was packed full of information about the club’s activities in the last 12 months both on and off the pitch. It is an interesting and informative read.

It underlines the progress that has been made at the club over the course of 2007. A case of much done, much still to do.

Please find a copy of the report attached for you to peruse at your leisure.

Secretary's Annual Report

Aussie Ace Signs on the Dotted Line

Champagne corks were popping amongst club officials this week after a top Aussie all-rounder signed on the dotted line.

Hard hitting middle-order batsmen Stuart Lee, 27, will be jetting over from Adelaide in time for the keenly awaited opening game on 19 April.

Cricket chairman Brucie Lunn’s hard graft over the long winter months has paid off. There is a promise of more signings to follow.

Stuart has played at a top level in Australia and comes to Wakefield Road with a rich pedigree.

Bruce said: “This is good news for the club. We hopefully have a player who score runs by the bucket load and get spectators pouring through the Wakefield Road gates.

“Stuart played in the Cheshire league last year and has also played at a very good standard down under. He’s not played Sheffield Shield but he has performed one rung below that ladder.”

There are more signings expected in the coming weeks to provide some much needed March momentum.

Turbo gears up for Southowram sojourn

Long-serving seamer Richard Tesseyman his heading for pastures new after years of loyal service at Wakefield Road.

He broke into the first team, after coming through the junior ranks, in his late teenage years and his raw pace helped him become a consistent performer over many years.

Richard’s finest hours came in the 2003 season. In a year of hard wickets, fast outfields and sunny weather, he twice returned nine wicket hauls. He was also a key member of the 1997 promotion winning team.

In the last couple of years, injuries have restricted his pace and he feels the time is right for a new challenge in the Halifax league.

He goes to Southowram with the club’s good wishes

LCC Constitution

Sexy it might not be, but important it is.

The club’s constitution, after many hours of hard work from club officials, has now been finished. A copy is in the section of ‘the club’ for you to puruse at your leisure.

It includes a range of important information setting out the aims and values of the club. All players are advised to give it a read if they have a spare 20 minutes.

Club secretary Steve Hartley said: “It is an important document and one we have to produce. It sets out the core of the club’s policies and despite it taking hours to produce, we are happy with the end product.”

Quiz-goers pack into Church Hall to boost club coffers

Dozens of people packed into Lightcliffe Church Hall on Sat night to test out their brain power and help raise the club hundreds of pounds.

A big thanks to the 60 people who attended the quiz night (including the four players who showed up) to help boost club funds.

The winning team was an IQ busting line-up of player-secretary Steve Hartley, Cricket Chair Bruce Lunn, Mr and Mrs Mark Wiley, and Big John Howard and his girlfriend.

The independently drawn raffle winners were Big John Howard, Steve Cooper, and Alistair Finn.

There was an excellent atmosphere, with a well stocked bar run by Duncan Powe and delicious hot supper served up by Tracey Powe. A good time seemed to be had by all.

Thank you to everyone who helped organise the event, particularly Tracey Powe who did some sterling work to help provide people with a delicious supper. Also a thanks to St Matthew’s Church for allowing the club to use their community room.

The next social event is a race night on Sat 19 April. Please make a note of this in your diaries and try and help support the club.

Win ten grand on LCC all-weather lottery!

The Lightcliffe all-weather lottery is an easy way to raise money for the club and gives you a chance to win a cool ten grand.

For only a pound a week you can give yourself a chance of winning this life changing sum of money. You’ve got to be in it to win it!

As committee member and groundsman Rod Heyhoe regularly points out this is a “win-win” situation for the club and should be supported by as many members as possible.

Rod took the chance to sign up some new members at Saturday’s quiz and a further recruitment drive will be launched in the coming weeks.

Rod said: “For a pound a week people can give themselves a chance to win anything from £2 to ten grand. In participating they are providing the club with a much need source of income.

”Entering is easy with a simple direct debit needed and away you go. I know one club member who won £20 recently and was chuffed to bits.”

Full details of how to enter the Lightcliffe lottery and support the club are on the right hand side link. For more details please contact Rod.

Good luck!

Turn out in force for weekend of repairs, rolling and roofing

The countdown to the cricket season is on but the action doesn’t just begin on 19 April as was recently stated!

There are dozens of jobs to do at LCC to help get the ground looking ship shape. Rod needs all the help he can get to get things in full working order.

So once again, the club will be having a weekend of action as part of Cricket- force weekend on Sat 5 and Sun 6 April.

Last year many players and committee members turned out to paint, plaster and lift. A similar sterling effort is required this time round.

The event is being organised by player-secretary Steve Hartley (whose contact details will shortly be on the web). If you have ideas about what could be done that weekend please contact Steve. The club needs your suggestions and help.

More details about Cricket-force weekend will be posted here shortly. Please pen these dates in your diary and help make the ground picture-perfect for when that first delivery is bowled on 19 April.

A story on what Farsley CC is doing for Cricket force weekend is on the JCT Bradford League Website. Click the link on the right for full details.

Rolling, rolling, rolling as the worm turns at LCC

Groundsman Rod Heyhoe’s hours of winter work getting the ground fit and ready for the new season are paying off.

LCC looked picture perfect this weekend bathed in glorious February sunshine.

There is, though, still much to do, like removing some annoying pests, as Rod pointed out as he revved his roller up for another pounding of the pitch.

He said: “Most of the work at the moment involves hours of rolling. I have also been sorting out the outfield, including removing the hundreds of worm casts that have appeared. There are always jobs to do and most of the important work is done in the close season.

“I am pleased with the progress that is being made. It’s only eight weeks to the start of the season but I think I am top of things at the moment.”

Slugging away

Rod added his thanks and appreciation to his friend and Institute Of groundsmen colleague, David Robinson, who lent him some gear to help wack away the worms.

If anyone wants to help out with a stint on the roller please contact Rod through the usual channels. He would appreciate your help.

Hot Rod shows he still has the touch

The winter nets are now in full swing with old and new players getting in shape for the 2008 campaign.

However, it was a veteran who caught the eye at the latest session with a master class in batting and off spin bowling.

Groundsman Rod Heyhoe, who last played a league game in 1994, showed everyone he still had it as he rocked forward and rode back to hit the bowling to all parts of the nets.

It was good to see Rod putting on the whites once again and there is now talk of a comeback for a few games in 2008.

Rod said: “It was good fun and I enjoyed the workout. My flighted off spin bowling had a few of the lads in two minds. It was good to pick up a bat again and hit a few balls in anger. I can confirm that my towel still does a good job. I never saw the point on wasting money on a thigh pad!”

Also at the nets was former Pudsey St Lawrence and Bowling Old Lane star Gurdif Singh. He has no club for 2008 and his impressive session certainly caught the eye.

After the nets club officials rushed off to contact Chairman of Cricket Bruce Lunn and tell him of the player’s availability.

Despite looking like he was wintering well, Gurdif produced a beguiling spell of bowling followed by some hard hitting.

Pudsey opening bowler Gary Severn was also at the nets. He told the club website last night that Gurdif would be a “real asset” to LCC.

Gary said: “I would certainly recommend that LCC make an approach to him. He is still a good player and is also a great lad.”

Watch this space for more developments on the signings front.

Ernest Hitchcock

The club was saddened to hear of the death of long standing supporter Ernest Hitchcock. He died peacefully in his sleep last week at the age of 96.

Ernest watched the first team home and away for many years. He was a popular figure at Wakefield Road rarely missing a game. He travelled by public transport to games, which often involved at least three bus and train journeys!

His knowledge of West Yorkshire bus services was second to none and the fact that, well into his 90s, he still came to watch the team at difficult to reach grounds like Yeadon, Esholt and Windhill said much about the kind of character he was.

Ernest’s funeral is at 2pm this Friday 22 February at Park Wood, Elland.

Aussie Ace is just the deal for LCC

Rumours have broken this week that an Aussie star is set to sign.

Unconfirmed reports have broken that a top-order batsmen, who also bowls a bit of spin, will shortly be putting pen to paper. This is just reward for the diligence of Bruce Lunn and his hard working cricket committee.

If the signing comes off this will be another piece in Richard Nichols’ jigsaw for the 2008 season. Opening batsmen Nick Pyrah, who was a consistent performer over a decade at Wakefield Road, has also returned to the fold.

Bruce is holidaying in Ireland this week but took the time to phone the website editor from his relaxing sea view retreat. Bruce said: “I want to emphasise that nothing is confirmed yet but, yes, we are very close to sealing the deal.

“He is just the type of player we are looking for and hopefully he will be the extra cog in the wheel that can see who improve on last year’s position in the league.”

At this week’s AGM Richard Nichols was confirmed as captain again for the 2008 campaign. Gareth Stevens will lead the 2nds, with James Powe skippering the thirds

Further news on signings, along with player profiles, will be appearing on the website very shortly. Watch this space!

It’s business as usual after positive AGM

Club officials and members packed into the church hall in Lightcliffe this week for the AGM.

After a two hour meeting, when the Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, groundsman and club captains gave their reports, club officials were elected unopposed.

Club officials for 2008/9 will be:-

President – Nigel Denham

Chairman – John Brooke

Vice Chairman – Duncan Powe

Secretary - Steve Hartley

Treasurer – Dave Curran

Press Officer – Paul Ramsden

After the meeting Club Chairman John Brooke said: “It was a reasonably good turnout for the AGM. It is an important event on the club calendar and a chance to thank the people who do so much to make the club run smoothly over the course of the year.”

There was a sense of optimism about the forthcoming season with news of new signings breaking moments before the meeting began.

The reports of the various officers will be on this website very shortly. Watch this space!

Lightcliffe selected to stage White Rose Trophy clash

Club officials are celebrating after the club was chosen to stage a White Rose representative game.

The high profile fixture, which will see the Bradford League White Rose team entertain their Halifax counterparts, will be staged on Sunday 11 May.

This is a timely boost for the club and is a just reward after recent modernisation work which has now enables access for cars and a spacious car park behind the club house.

It is also a testament to the hard work of Goundsman Rod Heyhoe. Rod told the website this week that he was “delighted” the fixture is heading to Lightcliffe.

Rod said: “This is good news. Everyone at the club is thrilled that the League has chosen our ground to hold this fixture. We are hoping for a packed ground, beautiful sunshine, and an entertaining high scoring game.”

The club is urging its members to pop along and show their support for the game on 18 May.

Rod added that the club hoped that this would be first of many representative games held at LCC in the coming years.

Link to story on Bradford League site

Lightcliffe Cricket Club Winter Indoor Nets

Winter nets for seniors, Under 17s and Under 15s commence on Thursday 7th February at Hipperholme & Lightcliffe HS between 8pm and 10pm. Nets for Under 12s and 13s will commence at Woodlands Cricket Club on Tuesday 29th January between 6pm and 7pm. Finally, nets for Under 11s will commence on Monday 4th February at Hipperholme & Lightcliffe HS between 6pm and 7pm. Please note the change of venue for the Under 12s and 13s. For those of you unfamiliar with the location of Woodlands Cricket Club please click on the link below.

Woodlands CC, Albert Terrace, Oakenshaw

You've got to be in it to win it!

Want to win big money and raise money for the club at the same time? Then get yourself in the all weather lottery. For only £1 a week you have a chance to win hundreds. And at the same time you are bringing cash to the club coffers. Full details can be found here or by contacting Rod Heyhoe. We need more people to sign up and help the club. Remember you've got to be in it to win it!

Winter Nets

With Hipperholme and Lightcliffe High School fully booked, we have still to secure a slot for next year's winter nets. Deputy Chairman Duncan Powe is busy beavering away to book us some facilities. Watch this space for news on this issue. Somewhere will be found and the first net of 2008 will be in late January/early February.

Get your thinking caps on!

A winter Cricket Club quiz night is, by popular demand back again next year. This social fundrasiser and not to be missed event will be held in St Matthews Church Hall on Sat February 23rd. Tell your friends and family and come along and support the club at this winter get together. A hot supper will be served and, of course, there will be a well stocked bar serving lagers, beers and ciders. See you on the 23rd! For more information please contact Michael Brooke.

Cup draw hands Idle test

The first round of the Priestley Cup has been made. And we've drawn Idle. The first team are away from home while the twos are at Wakefield Road.

Chairman of Cricket Bruce Lunn said: "It would have been nice to draw one of the big guns for a money spinning banaza. However, we are quietly confident that both our senior teams cam make progress and reach the second round."

The full draw can be found on the Bradford League Website.