WINTERTON cricketers and friends gathered on Saturday at the White Feather Hotel to celebrate another enjoyable season and present the end-of season awards.

WINTERTON cricketers and friends gathered on Saturday at the White Feather Hotel to celebrate another enjoyable season and present the end-of season awards.

Second team skipper Danny Crawley spoke on how good an effort it had been for the second team, with such a young squad, to retain their place in a very competitive Norfolk League Division Six. He paid tribute to all the tea ladies in particular, and thought the future looked promising with so many players coming through.

First team captain Kevin Percival looked back on a very successful campaign, and praised the all-round ability and effort of everyone in capturing the league's Division Two title. He also gave a warm mention to all who had helped off the field.

Awards were then handed out to, first, Danny Crawley for second team batsman of the year at an average of 31. Second team bowler of the year was Mark Hambrook with 22 wickets.

First team batsman of the year was Geoff Roper at an average of 40, and first team bowler of the year was Tom Witchelow with 25 wickets.

Clubmen of the year went firstly to umpire Trevor Jones, whose decision making had been impeccable and who had provided great advice when not officiating. He had the respect of all the teams in the league for his unbiased and thoughtful umpiring.

Secondly, Kevin Percival, who had had to take over after Danny Snowling had suffered an injury pre-season, had shown great skill in his handling of tactics and manpower as first team skipper.

He had brought a collective unity to the team, and also been instrumental in organising the annual tour to north Lincolnshire and the fantasy league.

Young player of the year went to John Stanhope-Smith for showing great improvement and commitment. He had skippered the Sunday side, and brought a cheerful and thoughtful approach to

the job.

Finally the player of the year, as voted on by 25 members of the club, went to Ben Utting. He had taken 27 wickets in all cricket, and batting in the middle order had finished on an average of 24. He had opened the bowling with pace and venom, and constantly encouraged his team-mates to maintain a high level of performance.

Tributes were paid by chairman Geoff Roper to Jackie Witchelow who had not only been very professional in being treasurer, but also offered excellent suggestions in many areas of the club. Thanks were also given to Dave Hambrook, who was standing down as groundsman, and had yet again provided a top-class square.

Presents were given to Debbie Witheridge, Gerry Roper, Christine Clarke, Claire Utting for making most of the teas, and others who were not present will be thanked later on. The Fisherman's Return had once again provided first-class hospitality.

Finally, the chairman said how he thought the club was in good shape, with 47 different players having represented the club in some game or other throughout the season. A new double net bay was being constructed over the winter, and various social occasions were also planned for the winter which he gave details.

The club was aiming to cement its place in the first division next season, and it was pleasing to see younger players such as Tom Roper, Josh Austin, Tom Witchelow and Keith Drewitt among others beginning to show blossoming ability and talent and holding down regular first team spots.

The White Feather Hotel was thanked for its excellent hospitality, and a very enjoyable evening was had by all.

Nets begin in March 2009, but anyone wishing to join a friendly and ambitious club can contact 01493393883 before that to register an interest. The club run three sides, with regular practise sessions over the season.

The club's annual meeting will be held in the Tinho at the Fisherman's Return on November 9 at 8 pm.

All members are asked to attend as the club is currently looking for a new chairman and treasurer.

Applications or nominations to the secretary Bryn Clarke on 01493 722405.