Posted: October 26, 2007

Competition president David Sharp told clubs that the past season had been an extremely difficult one for the Management Committee.

Speaking at the annual meeting he said: "There is no doubt that the past season was a tough one for us but we were fortunate that the two finals were excellent adverts for cricket.

"I would like to congratulate Wrenthorpe and Wickersley for a good Heavy Woollen Cup final which was superbly hosted by Hanging Heaton at short notice and both Shelley and Keighley should be praised on an excellent Crowther Cup final which was well hosted by Morley."

He added: "The decision to move the Heavy Woollen Cup final wasn't an easy one to make for everybody concerned.

"Liversedge have done a fine job in recent years, but the exceptionally wet weather we experienced this summer meant that no cricket was possible on their ground for a considerable period of time.

"After consultation with the two finalists, Wrenthorpe and Wickersley - who both inspected conditions at Liversedge before meeting with members of the committee - it was agreed that for the game to go ahead on August 5 an alternative venue had to be used.

"Three grounds were offered but it was agreed, with the help of the clubs, to switch the match to Hanging Heaton.

"It was an extremely difficult call but one that needed to be made. Unfortunately, some members of the committee, who did not participate in the meeting with the clubs, felt unable to continue to serve.

"I would like to place on record our thanks to Benny Hemming and Ron Tindall for their contributions to the competition. It is also my hope that Life Vice-President Neville Blamires will resume his place at the committee table."