LOCAL teams competed against each other in the Oldham Vets Thursday League.
In Division A, Royton Cricket ‘A’ were crowned champions after winning 14 of their 22 matches.
Their margin of victory over their nearest challengers was a mere half point – how close can you get!
Barrie Kitson led the way winning 17 of his 22 games to finish fifth in the league merits. Best team performances came against Brookdale Park ‘A’ and Stalybridge Recs ‘A’, gaining nine winners against their opponents, both at home. They also had nine winners on their travels at Hollinwood Cricket ‘A’ and eight at Dunwood Park ‘A’. In the cup, they had two tied matches against Tonge ‘B’ before beating them in a third match, despite losing both their league matches against Tonge.
Dunwood Park ‘A’ finished seventh of the 12 teams in Division ‘A’, winning 10 matches. Terry Johnston was the leading light, winning 15 of his 22 matches to finish ninth in the league averages.
It was a tough season for Crompton BC, who, by finishing 11th after winning 10 of their matches but suffering some heavy defeats, particularly on their travels where they failed to register a single victory and they were relegated to Division ‘B; for the 2019 season. Bob Horrocks was out on his own at the head of the club averages, winning 15 of his 19 matches.
In Division B, Royton Cricket ‘B’ were the best of the local lads, finishing eighth after winning 10 of their 22 matches. Peter Ashton was leading bowler, winning 15 of his 22 matches.
Local rivals Royton Park ‘A’ struggled all season, winning only three of their matches to finish in 12th place and so were relegated to Division C.
Trevor Gartside fought manfully to keep their heads above water winning 12 of his 19 games and just pipping his colleague John Davis to the club merit award by just half a point.
In Division C, Shaw Comrades dominated proceedings, winning 17 of their 22 matches, and were promoted to Division B as champions.
Ken Shaw had a magnificent 18 wins from his 22 matches to finish fifth in the league averages while Bill Higginbottom was just behind Ken winning 17 of his 22 matches.
Royton Park ‘B’ finished eighth after a record of 10 games won from 22 games.
Charlie Hewitt secured the club merits award, winning 13 of his 22 games, just pipping John Owens to the coveted crown.
More success for local teams, this time in Division D, as Dunwood Park ‘B’ won 17 of their 20 matches to finish one point behind the league champions, and gain promotion to Division C.
Bernard Sheridan was the star performer, with 17 wins from his 20 games, to finish fifth in the league averages; he was ably assisted by David Mills (16 from 19) and Ray Morris (15 from 19).
The only local action on a Thursday night involves Royton Cricket in the Blackley League, and it was a successful summer for the Paddock Crew, as they won the B Division title, after winning 13 of their 16 games.
Keith Gledhill, who won all 14 games, secured the B Division merit award. Geoff Robinson and Steve Bolton gave valuable support, winning 11 matches throughout the season.
If there is anyone out there who fancies taking up crown green bowling, get in touch with your local club.
They are always on the lookout for new players – Shaw Comrades and Royton Cricket in particular are seeking new players, and all clubs will welcome you with open arms.
For contact details, go online to www.bowlsnet.uk and search for your local team.