THE Chairman of Sandford Cricket Club, Mike Discombe, welcomed members, friends and sponsors to the end of season awards ceremony recently held at the club on a glorious Saturday evening, after the last round of Devon League matches.

The Bill Matten trophy for the Young Player of the Year was awarded, by Bill, to Adam Small. Adam has played for Devon County Cricket this season and has represented the First XI when school commitments have allowed.

Richard Foan, First XI Captain, presented the Player of the Year award to Sandy Allen.

Sandy covered for Richard, as Captain, during his time off for paternity leave and when injured. He also received the Performance of the Year award for an outstanding knock of over 160.

Another individual who received two awards was James Theedom. He was presented with the Second XI Player of the Year trophy by Captain, Peter Steer. James also received the Most Improved Player of the Year in recognition of the development he has shown throughout the year.

Although still very young he has often shown maturity beyond his years in a lot of this year’s games and he is undoubtedly a talented cricketer who is certain to do great things in the years to come.

Other awards went to Ellie Bishop - Third XI Player of the Year, Josh King - Fielder of the Year and Matt Theedom - Volunteer of the Year.

Thanks were given to everyone who had supported all three teams and the Club during the year.

Unfortunately as the Club has withdrawn from the North Devon League there is no cricket to be played until next season.

The last round of matches saw defeats for both the First and Second XI’s but the Third XI finished on a high defeating already promoted Newton Tracey. Johnathan Campbell, the Zimbabwean overseas player, was thanked for his time with the Club.

The evening finished with everyone feeling very happy with life at the Club and already looking forward to all getting back together in April for the start of another season.

Mike Canning