TRAINING & OUTDOOR NETS
Every other Thursday weather permitting between 6pm & 8pm.
The plan for the summer months starting from Thursday 16th May is to run bi-weekly outdoor nets. Everyone is welcome to attend. Just give our 1st team captain a call
| Thursday 16th May | Thursday 11th July |
| Thursday 30th May | Thursday 25th July |
| Thursday 13th June | Thursday 8th August |
| Thursday 27th June | Thursday 22nd August |
Posted: Wednesday 7th May 2024
NEW SIGNINGS!
With the new season upon us, we’re really excited to announce our four new players for the 2024 season
Signing number 1: Adam “Stretch/Bairstow” McNeilly.
Another Adam recruited from Steeple Langford, a former club captain he played there for over 10 years. Nickname of Bairstow being a fellow ginger. Adam hit 866 runs last season in all formats at an average of 72.17 and a highest score of 156* which backed up a season of 900+ runs the year before. Here’s to replicating that for Spye! Favourite cricketer is anyone but Adam Battisson. Love watching Ollie Pope bat he oozes class. “ I can’t wait to get started for Spye Park CC this season, the ground looks amazing already even after all the rain we’ve had! I’m a competitive person and I want to win and be successful but also keen for a good social.
Welcome to Spye Adam, go well.
Signing number 2: Liam (aka Linda) Harvey
has moved from Steeple Langford CC to Spye but actually debuted in a midweek game for Spye Park CC last year at Keevil. All who were present will remember that Liam announced himself by diving headfirst into the stingers. After ascertaining he was alive, we then inspected his horrendous nettle rash … and of course, laughed.
In an unfamiliar openers role last season, he averaged 23 with 64* his highest score. He is predominantly an opening swing bowler who has a mean slower ball in his armoury. Liam says “ everyone has made me feel really welcome, so hopefully I can make a difference on the field and repay the faith. Off the field, I need to give Simon Ellis a drinking competition”.
Welcome to Spye Liam!
Signing number 3 and the youngest of the bunch!
Meet Benji Underwood who also hails from the south of the county. Benji says…“Last season was my first season playing men’s 1st team and 2nd team cricket”. Best bowling figures 3/45 of 7, I bowled just shy of 40 overs last season, so for my first season I can’t complain. I like to bowl pacey Inswingers, Stock ball half tracker that goes to the moon
Favourite cricketer Stuart Broad and being there to watch his last ever test wicket was just epic!
Can’t wait to get started… up the Spye!”
Welcome to Spye Benji, great to have you aboard.
Posted: Friday 26th April 2024
A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN
Hello Everyone
As the new season approaches it seems difficult to envisage playing given the recent wet weather and forecasted conditions. It’s probably best I start with wishing good luck to all the grounds men and helpers trying to fight these conditions. I thank them all for their efforts.
In the off-season the club and committee have been working hard to promote Spye C.C. and attract new players. We have two quality new players in Adam McNeilly and Liam Harvey.
We still need to explore all avenues to attract new players and club members to build for the future. A new fund raising, and social committee has been formed by the ladies of Spye, and Matt, to put the club out there in the media, WhatsApp/ Facebook to generate more interest. The first social event (curry night) was well attended and the after eights were a little tricky! There are further social events throughout the season, come along and have some fun.
I’d like to thank personally our sponsors for their continued support, without them our fund raising would be made that much harder. I hope to see you at the matches during the season.
Spye has its last indoor net this Tuesday, try and make it, even just to get those old joints moving!
The first league game is on the 4th of May at home against Wilcot, so please all update your availability on Pitchero and let’s then put on a good performance. Play within the spirit of the game and make coming to Spye a wonderful place to play and visit for all. See you all there.
Jon Bathe
Posted: Saturday 6th April 2024
CLUB ANNOUNCEMENT
At the end of a specially arranged meeting open to all club members on Tuesday January 31st, Chairman Jon Bathe was pleased to announce that Tom Beard and Adam Battisson will be the clubs Saturday Captain and Vice-Captain for the 2024 season.
Tom Beard 43 said I am ecstatic to finally get my hands on skipper role, it’s an honour and privilege to be chosen and I am delighted to have Batman alongside me as his forensic cricket knowledge coupled with my drive and determination will position Spye Park Cricket Club very well for a successful season. Our focus is set on winning the league and gaining promotion to the next level. Tom then went on to add that he intends to harness the nucleus of the 2023 side with a couple of exciting new additions, Adam has been working hard on this and we should see some new faces at our next winter nets session on Tuesday 12th February.
Posted: Wednesday 1st February 2024
WINTER 2023-24 INDOOR NETS DATES
Great news, we’ve some fun winter nights coming. So why not give your 2024 season a boost and work on your Batting, Bowling and Fielding skills? given your love of cricket it won’t even feel like excercise….!
The next 5 session are open to members, or non members interested in joining the mighty Spye Park CC. So grab a buddy or family member, even if they play cricket elsewhere and get them involved in either trying out cricket for the first time or working on their game.
2 hour sessions – cost £5 a head.
Tuesday 19th December – 8pm
Tuesday 16th January – 8pm
Tuesday 13th February – 8pm
Tuesday 12th March – 8pm
Tuesday 9th April – 8pm
To be held at Devizes Leisure Centre indoor sports hall.
Contact Tom Beard on 07777 495221 for more info.
Posted: Saturday 9th December 2023
CRICKET SCORING COURSE
Introduction to Scoring, Course date: Sunday 21st January 2024
Course time: 9am to 1pm, Venue: Beversbrook Sports Facility, Beversbrook Lane, Calne, SN11 9FL.
Course booking link: https://booking.ecb.co.uk/d/41q13h
Course cost: £0
This is an ideal course for complete beginners or as a refresher for anyone returning to scoring. It covers the very basics of scoring and is ideal for parents who want to get more involved or anyone who wants to get started in scoring. The aim of this course is to identify and practise the basic skills with which to record a cricket match. It doesn’t cover everything, but it will give you the tools to get started, including: • Scoring record (scoresheet) • Umpire’s signals • Scoring symbols • Recording wickets and extras • Scoresheet balancing
Posted: Friday 8th December 2023
GET TRAINED FOR FREE: NEW ECB UMPIRE COURSE IN WILTSHIRE
- Understanding the role of the umpire
- Gain a basic understanding of umpiring the game
- Answering appeals and the common methods of dismissal
- How to communicate effectively with all stakeholders in the game
- Judging whether or not it is safe to play.
For full details including the January or March dates, click here on the Wiltshire Cricket Website
Spye Park CC will cover the cost of the training (£70) for 2 candidates, strictly first come first served, so don’t delay and let Helen Dolman know NOW that you want it! Click to Email Helen
Posted: Thursday 7th December 2023
CHAIRMAN BATHE GIVES THANKS TO OUR TALISMANIC SKIPPER MATT LOFT
Well, it is with sadness that I can confirm that on behalf of Spye Park Cricket Club that have I allowed you to step down as our 1st team skipper ahead of the 2024 season, this wasn’t an easy decision for me but on balance I have decided that King and Country can come just above the needs of Spye Park!
Seriously though, I would like to thank you for all your efforts and input over the last few years on and off the field, you brought a much-needed enthusiasm and athleticism to the team. As a top order batsman and much-admired opening bowler (not least by yourself!) you have become a valuable allrounder for the club. So don’t be away from the Park for too long, you will only be a couple of hours away, and we hope you will be available to play in many games next year, even if the Captaincy is not possible.
With this in mind we have deferred a decision for your replacement until January 30th 2024, whilst we assess all options for our a new Club Captain, we will welcome applications from club members or potential new members.
Lofty you are great act to follow leaving a good foundation to build our 2024 promotion push from, although that being said, I might have to buy in a few players to it makes selection a little more demanding!
All at Spye Park wish you well in your new posting, and stay safe, especially with the penguins!!
See you soon.
Chaiman Jon Bathe
Posted: Wednesday 15th November 2023
CRICKET CLUB CHRISTMAS DINNER 🎅 🎄
Saturday 23 December 7.00pm for 7.30pm. Our friend Neil from the Rising Sun in Lacock is kindly hosting our annual Christmas Dinner. NO work colleagues, NO family, just Turkey and Xmas beveridges with your cricket mates, what can’t be liked about that?
Click here to view the menu and let Helen know your choices Click to Email Helen.
Posted: Friday 10th November 2023
VISIT FROM PORTUGAL BRANCH OF FAN CLUB
It has been lovely to see Tim Godsell our ex player and founder of the Portugal branch of the Spye Park CC supporters club at our recent home games…!
Thank you very much for your generous donation and we look forward to seeing you next time you’re back at the Field of Dreams.
2023 END OF SEASON DINNER DATE FOR DIARY
Friday 3rd November 2023 North Wilts Golf Club 7pm start.
IT IS OFFICIAL WE HAVE THE BEST PITCHES
Received these bad boys on Monday from Wiltshire Cricket. Deserved recognition for the hard work and dedication of Simon and Chris. So lucky to have them at our club and blessed to play at our glorious ground.
Posted: Wednesday 26th April 2023
WE NEED MORE SCORERS – GET TRAINED
Would you like to learn how to score properly? A free “Introduction to Scoring” online training course is available here https://www.ecb.co.uk/be-involved/officials/find-a-course/scorers-count. Helen Dolman our very own “Grand Master” scorer is on hand to help. Helen can also advise about the Wiltshire Cricket training courses held over the winter months.
Posted: Thursday 20th April 2023
WINTER NETS – IT’S A WRAP
Starting back on December 6th last year and 6 sessions later finishing last night (April 18th 2023) well done to everyone attended and a special thanks to Tom Beard for all his technical work with us! It looks like we are ready and set for the season ahead.
Posted: Wednesay 19th April 2023
PRE SEASON CURRY
Friday 14th April at the Haveli near Bromham. Everyone welcome Click to Email Matt P and let him know you are coming too.
THE 2023 SEASON IS FAST APPROACHING
Indoor Nets Sessions and Interclub Pre-Season Friendly
The season is fast approaching and we have the following sessions open to members and non members interested in joining the mighty Spye Park CC.
Tuesday 21st February – 8pm
Tuesday 21st March – 8pm
Wednesday 5th April – 8pm
Tuesday 18th April – 8pm
To be held at Devizes Leisure Centre indoor sports hall.
Warm-up Interclub Match
We start our season with a warm-up an interclub 30 over match at the Spye Park ‘Field of Dreams’ . An ideal opportunity to get know every one at the club, to mix things up, introduce and trial new players. Hot food after will be provided with a Curry and Chilli rumoured to be on the menu!
Saturday 22nd April – 1.30pm
To be held at Spye Park Cricket Ground, SN15 2PS.
Please remember to update Picthero with your availability. A Yes, No or Maybe – it really helps.
Posted: 12th February 2022
2022 – BACK TO SOME SORT OF NORMAL
After a couple of years of COVID it appears that 2022 will be a time for us to get back to something like it was before. We have a full list of fixtures, pre-season nets are booked, sponsors are being sort for the re-booted Fixture Card, funds are looking fairly healthy and we still have the most beautiful ground in the County. What’s not to like?
Over the course of the coming season we will endeavour to update you with news and information that will no doubt also be available via WhatsApp etc, but will be much better written and generally funnier….
Posted: 20th July 2021
WEBSITE TOWERS RE-BOOTED
It is with great pleasure that we are able to announce that The Website, proudly bought to you from the secret bunker known as Website Towers somewhere in Website Land – is back up and running.
Over the course of the coming weeks as the season builds to what looks like being an exciting climax, we will try and bring you information, news and updates (some of which might even be true) about all sorts of things.
If you have anything that you’d like to get posted or shared here then all you have to do is get in touch…
But for now, best of luck for the rest of the season.
Can the 2’s win their league?
Will the 1’s get promoted?
Where on earth is Ron Swann?
HAPPY NEW YEAR & WELCOME TO 2021
In a bid to try and be a bit more with-it we will be endeavouring to keep the website regularly updated so please do come back and visit from time to time.
First things first. The re-arranged AGM is now booked for Thursday the 25th March at 7.30pm. Everyone is welcome to join – joining details will be posted nearer the time. There are a couple of committee jobs available should anyone be interested in helping with the running of the Club, its not much of a time commitment and many hands do indeed make for lighter work. Look out for details shortly.
There is a full fixture list available on the club Pitchero app. Please have a look and start booking your availability there. We will update the website fixture shortly.
ALL SUB’s ARE DUE NOW!!!
In a bid to get on top of things we have been working hard behind the scenes to ensure that we can hit the season running. The Fixture Card is almost ready to go to print, Indoor nets have been well supported and very useful. There are 2 more net sessions coming up on Sunday 29th March and 12th April, do try and come along if you can.
Sub’s are due now. As an extra incentive to pay by DD, we are offering a discount of £10.00 if you pay for them via this gocardless link making sub’s only £20.00pa. If you’d rather pay by cash though, I’m sorry to say that there is no discount – it’s £30.00!! So. click on the link and get it sorted, it’ll take you c30 seconds to do!
HAPPY NEW YEAR – AND WELCOME TO 2020
As the dust settles on 2019, Spye Park CC welcomes in the new decade in fine style and good spirits. We are very pleased to say that we’ve managed to re-instate our 2nd XI. After a couple of difficult seasons, the Club now feels that it’s in a good position to build for the future. Chris Bogg and Leigh Lawrence have taken on the responsibility of running the 2nd’s and we wish them the very best of luck in this new and exciting phase.
Mike will again be running the 1st XI, and with a couple of exciting Winter signings things are looking positive for 2020.
“The Wednesday’s” will again be strutting their stuff around the County, turning up late and trying desperately to make a game of it!
We have even managed to arrange a handful of Sunday fixtrues which along with a couple of Touring games and the President’s Game in September means that we’ll have a pretty full season in 2020.
We’ll be using Pitchero again for selections, information and corresppndence so please make sure that you’ve updated any changes to your contact information when next in Pitchero.
We are always pleased to hear from new players no matter how experienced, old or young. So if you are interested in playing cricket at the most beautiful ground in the County, please get in touch with us. You’ll find all our contact details on the Contacts page.
Finally, the first Net Session of the season was a great start. There were 15 pleyers, some new some old but with the 4 nets at Devizes it meant that everyone got involved and even though it was only for an hour it was still very worthwhile. Thanks to Chris for bringing along the bowling machine.
Next nets are on Sunday 2 February at Devizes Leisure Centre.
NETS BOOKED FOR 2020
Calling out to old and new players alike, our winter cricket net sessions are booked at Devizes Leisure Centre starting in the new year, from 5-6pm on;
Sunday 5 January
Sunday 2 February
Sunday 1 March
Sunday 29 March
Sunday 12 April
if you are interested contact club captain Mike Du Boulay on 07769 734933 or Secretary Jon Anstee on 07795 087717.
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2020
With the 2019 season a dim and distant memory now, the Cricket Club has been forging ahead and making plans for 2020. More to follow soon.
But for now, the Headlines are;
- Flash Event – Christmas Drinks – @ The Crown, Devizes 19th Dec from 7.30pm
- Spye Park CC re-laucnhes 2nd XI for 2020 Season…
- Chris Bogg and Leigh Lawrence rise to the top in 2nd XI leadership challenge…
- Spye Park CC announce “major” winter signings…
- 101 Club produces Shock Winner (not really!)…
END OF SEASON AWARDS – 2019
At this year’s Awards Dinner, which took place at the excellent Greyhound Pub in Bromham, we had it all going on – there were poems, speeches, guests of honour, awards, a raffle and some food and drink as well – it was a very enjoyable evening! In no particular order, The Winners for 2019, are…
- Batsman of the Season – Simon Ellis
- Bowler of the Season – Fin Fielder
- Midweek Player of the Year – Mike du Boulay
- Performance of the Season – Simon Ellis – 110*
- Club Man of the Year – Tim Stephens
- Duck Award 2019 – Tony Reeves
- Neil Amor Award for Sportsmanship – Adam Bee
- Players Player of The Season 2019 – Simon Ellis
MID SEASON REVIEW
As the Summer Solstise comes and goes Spye Park CC can look back on the first couple of months of 2019 with some cheer. The grounds are looking stunning – who wouldn’t love playing up the Park? We’ve been blessed with a raft of new players and club members who’ve bolstered the ranks so much so that we now have a selection policy!
The Saturday team are being ably led by Mike dB and have almost won as many as they’ve lost (which might not sound like a good thing but is a significant improvement on previous seasons and should be seen as good progress) and sit comfortably mid-table. They’ve managed to win a couple of close games rather than just “roll over” which we might have done in the recent past. And of course there’s been some good individual performances along the way – Simon slogging his way to 110* – I suppose has to be acknowledged, but there’s been some good cricketing skills on show as well….
We’ve also managed to play a Sunday game – again we won that with young Ollie Goodwin taking 3 wickets and Tom Newel scoring 70 odd.
The Midweeker’s have delivered their usual mix of brilliance, indifference and awfulness culminating in an excellent win at Devizes. Having tied their first game with Benger and beaten Malford before getting rolled by Chippenham they are doing well and gathering momentum.
Good luck to everyone for the second half of the season. #upthespye
2019 AND BEYOND
The 2019 season is already fully underway, the first month of the season has been and gone. There’s been new players (brilliant news), wins for both the Saturday XI and the Midweek team as well, a new date for the President’s Game – Sunday 1st September and a brand new Club Sponsor in the form of Vaughan’s Cookery School. Vaughan’s have been very generous in their support of the Club and and we’re delighted to have them on our shirts for at least the next couple of years. More to follow soon…
NEW PLAYERS
Spye Park CC are always on the look out for new players of all abilities. If you are interested, or know someone who may be interested in playing cricket at one of the most idyllic settings in the county then please do make contact with any of the club contacts.
Xmas Drinks
7:30pm – Lansdowne Strand Hotel, Calne – Wednesday 19th December.
A chance to remind your team mates how good that cover drive was back in June, that skier you took on the boundary, that sledge you gave the Ramsbury skipper, that 3 you ran with Simon or even take a vote on which midweek game against Chippenham’s overseas was the best?
Looking forward to seeing you all there 🙂
2019 Nets
Early dates for your diary. Pre-season nets have been booked at Calne Leisure Centre on:
Sunday 27 January, Sunday 24 February, Sunday 31 March and Sunday 14 April. Each session is between 5:00pm and 6:00pm
SPYE PARK CC – VIDEO
Thanks to Tom Arthur for filming and producing this, out first corporate video – enjoy
FIRST LEAGUE GAME ON SATURDAY!
Get your long sleeve sweaters ready! That’s right, sub 10 degrees weather can only mean one thing…..The start of the cricket league!!!
This Saturday our 1stXI (well our only Saturday eleven) host Combe Down. Please do come along early and we promise we will have the tea urn on nice and early. Maybe a blanket or two for the deck chairs if you’re really lucky.
Saturdays match is kindly sponsored by John Beal. Could do with some of John’s 9 overs for 9 runs to a 2/7 field. #onasixpence
SPONSORED BIKE RIDE – JUST GIVING
About 10 of our players and club members will be cycling the c110 miles from Lord’s to Spye Park on Thursday 12th Aprilarriving back at Spye Park on Friday 13th April. If you can support us in this endeavour then please visit our Just Giving page where you can make a donation – https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/spyeparkccroller
THE SPYE PARK 100 CLUB
The Cricket Club runs a “100 Club” that pays out 4 times year – for £1/month you could enter and put yourself in with a chance of winning. As an added incentive we offer a discounted Family Membership – if you buy 4 tickets we’ll give you one of them for free. – Get in touch with Russ to find out more.
SPONSORED BIKE RIDE – 2018 – UPDATE
The route is planned, the date is set (ish), some shirt sponsors are on board so we are appealing to anyone who’d like to get involved with actually riding the route and getting a load of sponosrship as well, please. If you’d like to find out more about this and other activities that the Club is planning in the coming months then please get in touch with Tom – 07815 865 415.
Esteemed Club Captain Wins 2017 Most Catches Award
At last night’s First Committee Meeting of the Year, Club Captain and all round top bloke Elliott Townsend was finally acknowledged as the Wiltshire League (as in all leagues) Best Catcher Award for 2017 with a Grand Total of 16 competed and successful catches.
An emotional Elliott was lost for words initially but regained his composure quickly and then proceeded to talk us though each catch individually, which was fascinating!!!
Congratulations to Elliott
SPONSORED BIKE RIDE – 2018
TAKE PART IN THE FUTURE OF YOUR CRICKET CLUB – YOUR CLUB NEEDS YOU…
Spye Park CC is a proper old fashioned village Cricket Club blessed with one of the most beautiful grounds in the County. The Cricket Club has been around since 1882 and over the years has been the venue for some excellent cricket, as well as an eclectic mix of characters and supports. However, we find ourselves needing to ask for help. Funds are low and player numbers are down but we are committed to the long term success of our cricket club and have already secured some new members for 2018. We’ve have decided to do something positive about securing our future. It’s not the first time the club has struggled and it won’t be the last but it’s up to us to do something about it.
During the course of 2018 we will endeavour to raise some much needed funds, the first significant event will be a sponsored bike ride from Lords (the home of cricket) to Spye Park (the field of dreams) – details of this event are being drawn up right now. Our target is £5,000. The idea is that the money will go towards a new roller for the Club with whatever might be left over going into the coffers to pay for new kit and equipment.
SPONSORED BIKE RIDE
In short we plan to ride the c110 miles from Lords to Spye on Friday 13th April arriving at Spye on Saturday 14th April (tbc). We are keen to hear from people who are interested in participating in this event, as well as riders we’ll need someone to drive the support vehicle, someone to map-read and to maintain bikes etc.
So if you are around and available on those dates (13th – 14th April (tbc)) please do consider offering your services in some way or other. There are a number of ways you could get involved, for example you could;
i. volunteer to do ride and start the year as fit as a fiddle;
ii. offer to travel in the support vehicle providing sustenance, support and encouragement;
iii. encourage your employer to be a shirt sponsor – we will be looking for a number of companies to put their logo’s on the bike shirts for £250 they’ll get highly visible sponsorship on the shirts as well as on the website and the Fixture Brochure for 2018;
iv. or simply sponsor someone who is doing the ride and encourage your family, friends and colleagues to do the same; and you could,
v. join the Cricket Club’s 100 Club and have a chance of winning a cash prize 4 times a year
If you’d like to know more or can offer your services/support to this venture then please do get in touch as soon as you can, as we approach the New Year we want to hit the ground riding!
Have a Happy Christmas and a Great New Year,
Tom
tom.mornement@gmail.com – 07815 865 415
SIMON’S FAVOURITE HIGHWAYS MACHINARY
As we move into the cricket season proper its time for the next installment of our ever popular Simon’s Favourite Highway’s Machinery feature.
This month, Simon’s Favourite is………..THE WACKER NEUSON WP1540AW
“In my role as one of Wiltshire’s premier road maintenance crew the jobs that Bevs gets me to do can be quite varied and often tiring. Fortunately after a hard day’s asphalt laying I sometimes get the chance for a bit of relief with a quick 10 minute wack. This little vibrating number from Wacker Neuson really brings a smile to my face without tiring my arms out”
2nd XI
It’s with regret that we will not be able to run a 2nd XI this season. Recruitment and retaining players has become increasingly difficult over the last few seasons and the player base available for the 2017 season just isn’t enough to make a 2nd XI viable.
The decision was taken at an EGM this week. At the meeting the club also recognized the need to ensure that the core remaining second eleven players must be given every opportunity for games on Sundays and Wednesdays, as well as in the 1st XI when opportunities arise. Elliott, Olly and George will work together to ensure this happens.
Key to help this happen is for everyone to provide early availability notification to the Captains. Please can everyone play their part in letting the Captains know when they can and cannot play.
A sad day for the club but onwards and upwards
#upthespye
SIMON’S FAVOURITE HIGHWAYS MACHINARY
In a new regular monthly feature this season our very own road maintenance supremo Simon Ellis will showcase his favourite bits of Highway Construction & Maintenance Plant.
This month, Simon’s Favourite is………..THE BOMAG BW 151 AD-5
“At this time of year I can’t think of anything better than sitting on one of these beauties with a pasty in hand. Whether it’s on the A361 causing chaos to the road users of Wiltshire or up at The Park on a Spring afternoon this piece of engineering perfection cannot be beaten. I love it and so does Bevs”
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
Please let it be known that as of the new year Annual Subs are now due. For the bargain payment of £20 you have a whole year’s subscription to Spye Park Cricket Club – possibly the cheapest membership around. The committee would be very appreciative if players could pay up as soon as possible as the pre-season is when we have a lot of bills to pay, so a balanced cash flow id pretty important. There is also a family subscription of £25 and Juniors only £10
Please do give a reference that is vaguely trackable eg. ELLIOTTSUBS just so that the Treasurer can decipher who it is.
As a 2017 initiative our Chairman will be acting as enforcer for any latent payees. Having spent a career in The City squeezing money out of poor institutions Robin will make light of the odd £20 from us lot. So you have been warned…Pay Up or expect the wrath of The Three Labradors.
WELCOME TO 2017
With the last of the Christmas decorations finally put away we welcome in a new year and look forward to a new season of thrills and spills at Spye Park. At the recent AGM we welcomed Olly Emmerson in as 1st XI Vice Captain to Elz and taking on the mantle as Wednesday Captain from Tom. Well done Olly, a tough act to follow! Tom was a stalwart of the Wednesday scene in North Wiltshire for more years than one can remember. An obituary will follow on Website Towers in due course.
We do have vacancies to fill. Paul Macey has stood down as Treasurer after a number of years of valiant work. This is a key role within the club so if anyone is interested or knows of someone who may fit the bill then please do make contact with any of the committee to discuss.
We are also in need of a Captain and Vice Captain for the 2s. The seconds very much turned a corner in the back end of last season and it would be great if this can continue into next season. Once again if you’re interested please do contact one of the committee.
Umpires – In order to improve the playing experience the Wiltshire league have introduced an incentive for teams who provide a competent umpire for matches. If anyone is interested in attending a one day Umpire Basics course before the start of next season do let us know.
Nets will be booked for later in the spring so in the meantime Elz encourages everyone to get fit, wash their kit and generally get excited for the new season.
Happy New Year
DINNER TIME!
For any of you who haven’t seen the many many messages posted by Helen via Twitter, mentions via Facebook, texts from your skipper, or if you’ve simply been on a 6 week sabaitical in the Amazon rain forest, you probably wont be reading this website page either…but, just in case!!
The annual Spye Park Club Dinner is on Friday 4th November at 7:30pm at North Wilts Golf Club. At only £20 for a 3 course slap up meal you cannot go wrong! You may even go home with one of the coveted awards, or maybe wrestle that Duck Award Trophy off one of the Ellis’
Please, please get your menu choices in to Helen as soon as possible. Usual communication means and payment in advance would be much appreciated.
Groundhog Day
Date for everyone’s diaries. September 24th will be Groundhog Day. That annually occurring event where Andy and one or two others slog their guts out scarifying, spreading loam, taking down nets etc etc. This year lets make it a club event and allow Andy the opportunity to spread the workload rather than a couple of tonnes of loam by himself !
Many hands make light work as they say and there will be bacon butties on offer and may be even a slab of beer if the weather seems suitable.
it will also be the last chance before the Dinner to reminisce over all those fabulous moments throughout the season – wonder at Pete’s 99 against All Cannings, that catch behind in the Presidents game or Simon’s bludgeoning 97 against Urchfont’s one man and his dog.
All The President’s Men too strong for Spye Park CC this time
On a rather damp Sunday afternoon Spye Park put out a very youthful XI to play against President Robbie’s XI – they had a lot of the usual faces and to be fair some greying around the temples but in the end all their experience told and Spye Park were put to the sword.
With grey heavy clouds above and the treat of rain in the air President Robbie won the toss (as always – I assume) and decided to make the most, of the currently dry, conditions by batting first. Despite losing a couple of early wickets (the first to a tumbling one handed catch behind – thank you) and with the rain beginning to fall steadily The Presidents XI were soon into their stride, most notably Charlie Redmayne who struck a brisk and brutal 40* before retiring. The President’s Men continued to score well and they finished their 25 overs on a very competitive 181 for 5.
After tea, which was a truly high quality affair (and with the rain well set) All The President’s Men trooped out on the Park to defend their total – The President opened the bowling himself whist Beardy opened the batting with Mornement and set about the bowlers with his usual swagger and gusto (this swagger may have been aided by a couple of beers – but that may well have been Robbie’s tactic all along – free bar = exuberant Beard) – after some lusty blows and with Spye Park ahead of the run rate Beardy succumbed to an excellent catch at extra cover. The Club Skipper batting at 3 came and went too quickly before Mornement was caught behind and suddenly the wheels were coming off. BIG Simon entertained the crowd with a few agricultural smears (he calls them technical cricket shots) but wickets continued to fall at regular intervals and Spye Park never really looked like threatening The President’s total. Special mention for Brad batting at No11 who managed to hang on for a while taking the game into the final over before Robbie got his just desserts getting Brad out off the final ball of the game. Spye Park finished on 121 all out.
The Presidents game is always a lovely fixture, and this year despite the rain was no different. All The Presidents Men clearly enjoy their cricket and clicked as a team on the day, Spye Park on the other hand might be a little disappointed with their efforts but it was a good fun game played in the right spirit, well done everyone for getting the game on and thanks to Robbie’s people for providing such an excellent spread.
The Wednesday’s Finally Win a Game
There has been much talk recently about the non-use of The Website (certainly compared to the good old days when there was actually quite a lot of comment (sometimes funny) on these pages! Well after 2 wash outs and 2 “other” games The Wednesdays trooped off to Christian Malford this week to take on the mighty slayers of Calne. To put a little context on this, we’ve had the rub on CM over recent times but didn’t go there with high hopes this time. Things started well, we had 11, we won the toss and batted, Jon Bathe was playing for us (I did say things started well!) – Elliott and Matt Loft opened the batting the latter lasting less than he would have wanted to but Elliott was in some mood to swing and did so in the company of Beardy quite handsomely until he was caught one handed on the boundary just a single hit away from 50. Beardy did get to 50 off only 20 balls before the skipper and BIG Simon Ellis picked up the mantle and finished things off masterfully, at 205 for 2 (I might be wrong but I don’t recall us scoring over 200 before) with the skipper on 50* and Si 38*.
So with a majestical 205 to defend The Wednesday’s set about there task – Ollie and Pete kept things fairly tight and didn’t concede a boundary until the 4th over but CM ran well and kept themselves close to the required rate. James and Matt continued to keep things fairly tight before Bathe had a go and somewhat charitably encouraged CM to think that they could chase this target down before he was given him a rest and sent to chew the grass in the outfield. Meanwhile Mike did a great job of keeping things very tight for 3 economical middle overs before Ollie, Pete James and Matt came back to finish things off. There were wickets for Pete, James and Matt as CM finished on 185 for 3 thus ensuring that The Wednesdays got over the line with a bit to spare. This was an excellent team performance with almost everyone contributing handsomely – we should make special mention of Russell Fletcher though who neither batted nor bowled but fielded the ball twice, quite brilliantly. Next we host Lynham before the team enjoy a well earned mid season break in the Maldives.
SPYE PARK CC KIT – CLUB SHOP NOW OPEN!!!!
if your playing kit is looking a little worse for wear, or a little bit tight around the middle, we at Spye Park Website Towers have just the answer for you…….New Kit!!! Not only can we offer you new playing shirts, but also training wear and leisure wear as well. Oh and its all available via our Club Shop at our new supplier, Sporting Billy. So go on, click the link below and get buying for the new season. Big thanks to Helen for making all this possible!
The club shop is listed on the drop down tab on the right. You will be able to have your kit posted to you OR it will be able to be collected from them direct at
Sporting Billy
Unit 10 Bumpers Farm Enterprise Centre,
Vincents Road,
Chippenham,
SN14 6QA
01249 656200
0845 838 6766
Club members will also benefit from 10% discount off all other equipment on production of proof of membership.
New stock items will be added when available.
FIXTURES – (Now Including Wednesdays!)
That’s right folks. The fixtures for this season are out and available for you to peruse at your leisure. Everyone can now start planning their excuses for those horrible away fixtures in Swindon, which fixture clashes with their wife’s birthday (that’s Goatacre 2nds away for me by the way!), or whether it is tactical to be playing at home or away when England play Russia on 11th June? Plenty indeed to ponder.
FRED POWNEY
At the end of last season the club were very saddened to hear of the passing of Fred Powney, truly one of the legends of Spye Park Cricket Club. Fred played for Spye for many years and became one of the most feared bowlers in Wiltshire.
For more about Fred and his exploits at Spye go to ‘About Spye Park’ – ‘Hall of Fame’
SPARE SPCC KIT
We do have some remaining kit for sale at a some very reasonable prices. Some club shirts (large size I believe) and other sundries.
Please contact Helen for more details.
NETS – CORRECTION!!
In a new found drive for consistency our new Club Captain (Elliott Townsend for those who didn’t know) has altered the net times at Calne Leisure Centre. In his first interview for Website Towers Elliott said “Consistency is my middle name, every place has a name and every name has a place….it’s very important.” Well said Elliott, I’m sure someone knows what you mean? Anyway, net sessions in the spring wil all start at 2:00pm. That’s right folks, for those who may struggle to remember 2:00pm, it’s the old time league games used to start before they were tinkered with.
As you will have probably gathered given the mild weather we are all experiencing, Spring and therefore the cricket season, is just around the corner! Now despite the sterling work by Andy, Simon, John, Bevs etc. the ground isnt quite ready yet. So, we have booked some nets at Calne Leisure Centre so that everyone can reaquaint themselves with the art of bowling and batting well before the season starts for proper.
The dates are:
20th March 2:00pm to 3:00pm
3rd April 2:00pm to 3:00pm
10th April 2:00pm to 3:00pm
Please spread the word so that we can get as many existing and new players there as possible.
JUNIOR NETS
We also have junior nets organised in partnership with Goatacre CC also at Calne Leisure Centre. Sessions will be £2:00 per person and the dates are as follows:
Sunday 28th Feb
Sunday 6th March
Sunday 20th March
Sunday 3rd April
Sunday 10th April
All sessions are 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Any queries so contact Helen or Andy
Leaked News From the AGM
Following an excellent AGM chaired by Mr Andrew Ellis in the absence of the now retired Mr John Beal, here at Website Towers we are very pleased to announce exclusively that at the AGM a surprise new job has been created, that off Spye Park CC Social Secretary! After much animated debate and discussion is was agreed unanimously that Mr Russell Fletcher of Rowde be elected the Clubs first and therefore best Social Secretary. Not wishing to rest on his new laurels Mr Fletcher has already launched his first event………………….
Spye Park Christmas Drinks Friday December 11th 7.30pm at the Vaults, Devizes
Our annual Christmas drinks are to be held at the Vaults Ale House & Beer Shop, the newest and most exciting pub you’ll find in Devizes.
There will be a prize for the person wearing the best worst festive jumper and if you would like utilise the clubs internal transport system, Raquel Taxis maybe offering a pick up and drop off service please call 07795 087717 to arrange.
Also keep an eye for details of other exciting SPCC social events planned for 2016.
Russell Fletcher, SPCC Social Secretary – 07866 494901
Spye Park Cricket Club Annual Awards Dinner 2015
Saturday 7 November at North Wilts Golf Club
ONLY £20 PER PERSON – BARGAIN!!!!
Only 1 month to go until you can find out who has won the most ducks award (amongst others of course, but that’s the one which most are interested in). Once again we will be at North Wilts Golf Club. For those who were there last year I think you will all agree it was a great venue with great food and an enjoyable evening was had by all.
Helen has done a fantastic job so far with all the arrangements so now its down to everyone else to do their bit
1. Buy a ticket and pay money in to SPCC via the BACS details below.
2. Confirm you have done this to Paul Macey please.
3. Decide on what you want to eat and let Helen know.
4. Bring along a novel raffle prize.
Menu for the night is:
Roasted carrot & red pepper soup
or
Chicken liver pate
***
Roast beef & Yorkshire pudding
or
Herb crusted cod loin with buttered new potatoes
***
Lemon meringue pie
or
Cheese & biscuits
***
Tea or coffee
Meet 7.15-7.30pm for drinks.
Please pay SPCC a/c no: 00278077 sort code: 30-92-63 and let Paul know you have paid.
All menu choices to Helen helen.dolman@gmail.com or 07940 559605 or @SpyeParkCC or @dollyfreckle asap please!!
ANNUAL DINNER
This is a “Save the date” email that the dinner has been booked for Saturday 7 November at North Wilts Golf Club – more details to follow.
BATTING MASTERCLASS
In a continued effort to improve playing standards and keep up with the modern game Spye Park have taken a leaf out of other side’s coaching manuals by running a batting masterclass session. Chippenham recently enlisted the help of Tom Alsop to tutor on hitting sixes. Spye realised that their “That came on to me a bit quick leg side fends” were short of the quality needed in modern Wilts League Cricket so enlisted the help of 74 year old Lionel Perrett to teach the younger guns how it’s done.
The above images are kindly provided by, and courtesy of, Lionel Perrett Batting Inc. who is available in the Chippenham area on friday nights for coaching sessions if Tom Alsop isn’t around.
SPYE PARK STAY FOCUSSED
Following a recent run of mixed results there have been a few comments amongst the cricketing fraternity that The Park weren’t as focussed as they used to be back in the day. Saturday League Captains Paul Fennell and James Ellis have been quick to refute such claims. In a joint statement exclusively to Website Towers in Website Land, prior to wider media release, Paul and James were keen to state the real deal. “There’s a real Spark in the club at the moment which is exciting to see. All players are wearing their club shirts, and indeed their club jumpers, with pride and joy. Everyone is focussed on an enjoyable second half of the season that will no doubt result in a few wins along the way”. Well said chaps.
WEEKLY UPDATE
2015 season well underway. Most players will have had an outing or two; except for our Chairman of course who is enjoying the Vinyards of France! Firsts had a memorable trip to Swindon for their first league game. Rain unfortunately (or not as the case may be!) intervened and the match was abandoned. Good early season runs for Fens and Ed Whateley on debut.
Seconds unfortunately came second best to a strong Nationwide side. Supper batting from Arthur Dodson though before he heads off to India on his gap year. Debutant Sam Bourne’s cover drive being the other highlight.
The midweek team bounced back from being Kilbee’d last week to notch up a fantastic win against Sutton Benger. Some friendly bowling allowed the visitors to set a mammoth 182 to chase down in the dwindling light. Top work from Ells and the inform Arthur set the Park on their way with an unbeaten 100+ opening partnership. Beardy was on hand with a quick cameo at the end to smash the winning runs with 4 balls to spare.
A MESSAGE FROM OUR YOUTH COACHES
We hope that you have had a good winter and are dusting off your bats and balls
We have arranged, in conjunction with Goatacre, some indoor sessions to get the season moving on the following dates:
Saturday 7 March
Saturday 14 March
Saturday 21 March
Saturday 11 April
All sessions are from 3 – 4.55 and are at Calne Leisure Centre
We have to make a small charge of £2 per session.
Please come to as many as you can and if you have friends then bring them along. No equipment is needed just a pair of trainers
We look forward to seeing you
Andy, Helen, John and James
CALLING ALL BUDDING SCORERS
Dear Scorer colleague,
Wiltshire ACO is about to run another Scorer Taster session – Beversbrook Sports Facility, Calne on Sunday 8th March, 9.30-11.30am. The session is FREE and would be useful for anyone interested in scoring. Do you know of someone who might be interested? Likely participants are: ‘mature’ players who want to contribute; non-batting players who get ‘volunteered’ during matches (especially at 2nd/3rd/Sunday XI level); and the friends and family of players who accompany them to matches (especially youth team players).
Please ask anyone interested to contact me as below, so that I can ensure I have enough scoresheets/handouts/etc. And if they can’t make this date, please still contact me so that I can set up something for them later.
Thanks,
Sally Pitman
Wiltshire ACO Scorer Officer
01380 726145 or 07828 261592
LAST SEASONS AWARD WINNERS
At the end of last season we celebrated the good and great of Spye Park Cricket Club at our Annual Dinner. For those who weren’t there it was a superb evening, enjoyed by all. Highlight of the evening, apart from Dave’s speech was of course the annual awards. The recipients of whom were:
- 1st Team Player – John Beal
- 1st Team Players Player – Matt Hutchins
- 2nd Team Player – Rob Anstee
- 2nd Team Players Player – Elliott Townsend
- Sunday Player – Elliot Townsend
- Midweek Player – Tom Mornement
- Performance of the Year – Arthur Dodson
- Clubman of the Year – Digger West
- Neil Amor Award – Frey Nutland
- Young Player of the Year – George McIlwaine
- Ducks Award – Jack Young
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!! – 2015 League Fixtures Announced
Now that the hangovers of what was the Website Towers Christmas Party have subsided, the team of intrepid techno-geeks will soon be embarking on whole load of 2015 Spye Park CC Website Updates. Yep, they’re as keen as mustard!
To start with we have the Wiltshire League Fixtures.
Keen followers will notice that both teams have an early start to the season. 25th April no less!! So get your long sleeve sweaters out. The 2nds will be at Home to Nationwide 2s with the 1sts visiting Ramsbury….? to play Swindon A. That’ll confuse some of the younger players I am sure.
Another point of note is that games start at 1:00pm now. Less of a lie in for some but more drinking time back at The George for all.
CHRISTMAS DRINKIES – 16th December 7.30pm The George
As some of you may have noticed our Club Social Secretary has been a little quiet in recent weeks. In fact some of you may be wondering who indeed our Social Secretary is??
Well to fill this gap our esteemed Club Vice Captain (Simon for those who didn’t know that either) has organised Christmas Drinks at The George.
“The More The Merrier” and “Be There or Be Square” as they say
2014 AGM
A reminder that the club AGM is on Thursday 13th November, 8.00pm at The Owl (Bromham Social Club). Please, please do make every opportunity to attend. It’s really a really important chance to have your say in how the club is run.
2014 AGM
The Spye Park CC 2014 AGM will be held on Thursday 13th November at The Owl (Bromham Social Club) starting at 8pm. It is a very important meeting as it is when the Officers of the Club are voted in and decisions on subs, match fees and other Club issues are made. If you wish to nominate someone or volunteer yourself for a club position please contact Jon Anstee de Mas beforehand. If nominating someone please check they are happy to stand!
This is your chance to have a say into how your Club is run so please make every effort to attend.
VACANCY FOR TREASURER
Paul Macey has decided to stand down from the treasurer’s post at this years AGM. Paul has done a great job during his time as treasurer and the committee are grateful for his sterling work and efforts.
If anyone is interested in picking up the reigns, or know someone who may be interested, then please do let either John Beal or Jon Anstee de Mas know.
GROUND TIDY DAY – SATURDAY 20th SEPTEMBER
Please all come along on Saturday from 10:00am to help tidy everything away and do what’s needed to the square.
Bacon Sarnies from 10:00am
“Many Hands Make Light Work”
2014 CLUB DINNER – 11th OCTOBER – NORTH WILTS GOLF CLUB
Time to confirm your places and choose your courses for the night. With a new venue this year it should be a superb night.
Our Helen has done all the hard work in pulling this together so all we have to do is decide if its Salmon or Beef and pay up the £20 which I am sure you will all agree is excellent value.
So here are the details:
11th October – 7pm drinks for 8pm start
STARTERS: Chicken Liver Pate OR Tomato & Basil Soup
MAINS: Salmon en croute OR Roast Beef & Yorkshire Pudding OR Mushroom, Walnut & Cranberry Tartlet with Port & Stilton Sauce (quite literally a mouth full !)
DESERTS: Black Forest Pavlova OR Cheese & Biscuits
Tea & Coffee to Finish
Firstly – Confirm your place, make your choices and email Helen ( helen.dolman@gmail.com ) or text on 07940 559605 or via Twitter – @SpyeParkCC or @dollyfreckle
Secondly – Send £20 to the club (emailing Helen and Paul Macey ( macepd@aol.com ) so we know who has paid what)
Sort Code: 30-92-63 Account No: 00278077
Payment can be made on the night but we’d much prefer up monies up front.
Please help and make the night a special one.
GROUND CLEARANCE DAY – 20TH SEPTEMBER
You are all cordially invited to the annual working party that is tidying up after ourselves and putting the ground to bed for another winter. Andy and John will be marshalling everyone around and there is plenty to get stuck into .
Please make every effort to be there and help out.
2014 DINNER – 11th OCTOBER
A date not to be missed. Yes, we now have some of the details for this years annual club dinner. Venue this time will be North Wilts Golf Club. So make sure you keep the date free:
Who will win the Players Player award?
Will Simon win the most ducks award?
How many times will our Chairman praise the Juniors?
Full details will be published soon but suffice to say we should be able to get a three course meal on the £20 mark. Drinks are cheap as well so lets make sure we have cracking club night out.
Watch this space for further details.
ANNUAL SUBS
As promised in an earlier message on this here The Website it is “Name and Shame Time”. Our Treasurer has finally thrown his toys out of the pram, and quite rightly has provided The Website with a list of names of those who have not yet paid their annual subs. So apologies if you have recently cleared your debt but here we go.
Simon Ellis
Mike Du Boulay
George May
Pete Ellis
James Ellis
Nathan Tingley
Ryan Lander
George McIlwayne
Please, please pay up on Saturday. There are no more excuses.
NETS – A FURTHER UPDATE
Keen net goers will have noticed a new addition to our nets area. Yes, a rabbit fence around the outside. This is not an attempt to keep our 9, 10, Jacks away from any form of useful practice, it is in fact to help us as we have not been very good at raising and lowering the nets at practice.
The fencing can be unhitched on the left hand side and coiled back for practice. All we then need to do is replace afterwards. Simples.
ROLL UP, ROLL UP, ROLL UP
A message from our Chairman – The raffle is only a few weeks away so can we all have a final push at selling tickets. Would Captains and Vice Captains please remind players to try and sell as many tickets as possible, and not forgetting to sell some to the opposition at our remaining home fixtures. Besides main prizes we also have many other wonderful prizes including a County Cricket bat, a Mercedes Benz picnic hamper, a round of gold for 4 at Bowood, County Pads and Gloves and many more.
Please could all tickets sold be returned to John Beal by 16th August preferably or on 23rd August at the latest.
NETS – A POLITE REMINDER!!
As most of you know we have a lovely two bay net area down below the car park. Great for practice. A gentle, but serious, reminder to all to please make sure the nets are lifted up after practice. This avoids unnecessary suffering for any rabbits or birds that may get caught up. It also means Simon has to cut them out with his penknife which makes an awful mess….of the nets I mean.
ANNUAL SUBS
As the days draw shorter and we re now into the reverse league fixtures, for those who haven’t yet done so, it really is time annual subs are paid! Your Captains will be more than willing to relieve you of some cash on Saturday, Sunday or Wednesday as appropriate. Our Treasurer has promised to name and shame by the end of the month.
£40 Adult
£10 Junior
£45 Family
BARGAIN!!
PRESIDENTS DAY 2 JULY
On a bright June afternoon a youthful (+ Andy) Spye Park XI entertained the Presidents XI in this annual fixture. Mr Enthoven’s team batted first and started very well, the openers raced along at an excellent pace before contriving to get themselves out to the nagging line and length bowling of young Nathan who in the end took a career best 6-fer. With Pimms and beers served at the half way stage there was some doubt as to whether or not Simon and Beardy would make it back on to the pitch – fortunately they did! The Presidents XI kept finding ways of getting themselves out, finally finishing on 136 all out. Tea was as you might imagine, better than anything that Digger has ever produced for a Sunday afternoon game.
Spye set about their chase in a very sensible manner and at the half way stage (15 overs) they were 66 without lose. Once Mornement was retired out there was a bit of a clatter of wickets as Spye stumbled towards victory – James Ellis contributed a fine 32 and did his job as a opener to try and hold things together. In the end it was down to the skipper for the day Paul Fennell, to slap the winning runs with a couple of overs to spare. There was though some controversy late on when Mike de Baggins who had early convinced Gordy to let his Dad have a go at umpiring, was given out Stumped by Mr Du Baggind Senior – “I’m not impressed”.
All in all it was an excellent afternoons cricket – Mr Endhoven presented the Presidents Cup to Fens and promised to win it back again next year. Thank you to our landlord for providing an excellent spread and to his team helpers for managing the facilities so well.
HALF WAY THROUGH FOR THE WEDNESDAYS 12 JUNE
At the half-way stage of the midweek season the Wednesdays can be pleased with their efforts so far – sitting comfortably third in the league having only lost 1 game. There have been some notable performances with both bat and bowl most recently young Arthur Dodson scoring 50* against Semington last night and Nick Collins 4-17 against the mighty Bishops Canning’s last month.
THE ECB WANTS TO KNOW WHAT YOU THINK 10 JUNE
Understandably the ECB is keen to know what makes the “average” club cricketer tick!!! Of course the outcome of this is to try and make cricket an even better experience for all: and not just the players. Family, friends, helpers, carers, spectators are all just as important.
The survey link below will take about 15 mins to complete, and it is well worth doing – you could even win a prize in the “prize draw” – www.ecb.co.uk/playingsurvey2014
Wiltshire Cricket Ltd are particularly keen to take the results from this survey to help improve the cricketing experience for everyone in Wiltshire so please do take the time to complete the survey and pass it on. The more data captured the better and more realistic the results/outcomes.
REALITY CHECK FOR THE WEDNESDAYS 14 MAY
Well it had to happen sometime, after 4 unbeaten weeks and somewhat surprisingly holding a place at the top of the table The Wednesdays have finally tasted defeat at the hands of the mighty Bishops Canning’s. Canning’s turned up at the field of dreams with intent but the Spye bowlers did a great job of restricting them to a modest 132 for 9. Unfortunately our hero’s never got going with the bat and were skittled for a mere 70. The bandwagon moves on to Christian Malford next week – enjoy the sun.
SPYE PARK AND SOCIAL MEDIA 7 MAY
Here at Website Towers we are very please to announce that Spye Park CC have entered the land of TWITTER – you can follow us and our updates @SpyeParkCC – simple as that.
WINNING START TO 2014 7 MAY
After a couple of forgettable seasons Spye Park CC have started 2014 on a much more positive note – Dave’s Saturday Men began life in Division 2 with a good win over Beckington, while the Wednesday mob have remained unbeaten in their first 4 games (2 of them have been lost to the weather mind) with Matt Hutchins going into May averaging 32.5 (thanks for the stats Matt)! Unfortunately only the Seconds have yet to register a league win despite an excellent performance against Chippenham 3 where Elliott Butcher (!) took 6 wickets.
NOTE – If anyone can update us as to how the Sundays have been getting on we’d appreciate it.
POLITE NOTICE – RUBBISH 29 APR
We are extremely lucky to be allowed to use Spye Park Estate as our Cricket Club, we are blessed with fantastic facilities, a lovely ground, a handsome pavilion and a generous landlord BUT we ALL have a duty of care when it comes to looking after it. We must ALL take some responsibility for looking after the place – that means picking up and removing ALL of our rubbish – wherever you are (at the nets, in the pavilion or walking around), putting things away in their rightful place, leaving the changing rooms tidy and neat for the next game, putting the scoreboard numbers away neatly and locking up. If we ALL do our little bit then the place will run smoothly and be kept tidy.
NEW CRICKET SEASON KICKS OFF TONIGHT 16 APR
The new cricket season finally gets going tonight with the legendary Spye Park Midweek Mobsters (new franchise name) taking on the might of Melksham and Beanacre in T20 league match using pink balls for the very first time! Spye will be putting out an 11 and are pleased to have Jim Paget on board to umpire the game.
NETS, NETS, NETS, NETS – on SUNDAY 4 APR
BIG NEWS 20 MAR
Big news stories have been few and far between so far this year but as the new season inches up on us here’s one to get you going – The Mighty Wednesday Warriors fixtures have been published and as of now are live on the website. First up on 16th April, yes that’s right 16th April which is only 27 days away, is Melksham & Beanacre up at The Park.
For a full list of all this seasons fixtures please check out the team page on the left. Apparently there are other teams that play at Spye Park as well – you can check out their fixtures whilst you’re at it.
MATCHDAY SPONSORSHIP 12 MAR
This season the Club is looking to reduce its financial expenditure by trying to find people willing to be “Matchday Sponsors” for our home games.
The cost would be £50 which would go towards covering the cost of the match ball and teas and in return you would be in the fixture card and on the website as “Matchday Sponsor” and be our guest (if not already playing) with tea included for the match.
If you are interested please let me know, if possible by the end of March, to enable us to get your entry in the fixture card, thank you
John Beal, Your Chairman
LEAGUE AND SUNDAY FIXTURES 2014 PUBLISHED 21 FEB
Cancel any thoughts of your Summer Holidays now. This seasons League Fixtures have been published and reproduced here for your to enjoy. Happy days.
Please note that the Wednesday Fixtures and Junior Fixtures have not yet been published.
WELCOME TO WEBSITE 2014 10 FEB
Happy New Year to all our many readers and supporters out there in Readerland – here at Website Towers, we would like to start the year by congratulating everyone who has something to be pleased about, well done. For those of you that don’t have anything to be pleased about yet here’s some things that might help
1. The Ashes are finally over you can relax now,
2. Dave’s back, but for how long?
3. The Economy is showing signs of recovery
4. Kevin Pietersen is available for selection, and
5. Jon Bathe says he’s fit (for what, we’re not sure)
Over the winter, whilst there have been some changes in leadership and responsibility, there are some things that never change. Our pavilion is still the most handsome pavilion in the whole of the county, cricket is still the best sport in the World, Summer always follows Spring and here at Website Towers we’re ramping up for another season of runs, wickets and other stuff!
As we get ready for the season please be sure to check the website regularly for updates, fixtures and news – it could be fun, it might not be but all the same please do check back regularly.
IMPORTANT NOTE NO 1 10 FEB
INDOOR NETS
Indoor nets will be held at Calne Sports Centre (White Horse) on Sundays 30th March, 6th and 13th April from 4.30pm – 5.25pm. Please make every effort to attend and bring along a friend.
(Here at Website Towers we are not quite sure whether Chairman Beal means you to bring along cricketing friend or just a friend to support and encourage you – we’re expecting a statement from the ECB quite soon!)
IMPORTANT NOTE NO 2 10 FEB
YOUR SUBS ARE DUE
Just a quick reminder that Club membership is an annual thing and it starts on 1st January so everyone’s subs are now overdue!!!! It is an important element of the Club’s income and prompt payment would be much appreciated.
Family membership – £45
Senior membership – £40
Junior membership (21 and under, in full time education or unemployed) – £10
Ways to pay:
1. By cheque or cash to your captain or someone on the Committee;
2. Direct into Club bank account – Sort Code 30-92-63; Account No. 00278077
(please email Paul Macey ( macepd@aol.com) so that he can keep a tract on who’s done what)
3. Cheque in the post to Paul Macey 30 Wellington Square Melksham Wilts SN12 6QX
IMPORTANT NOTE NO 3 10 FEB
100 CLUB
The 100 Club is an important way in which the Club raises income to ensure that we can maintain and improve our ground, pitch and facilities.
It is basically a prize draw with 4 draws per year and 4 cash prizes per draw ranging from £50 to £10.
Tickets are £12 per year or if you buy 3 you’ll get one free (£36 for 4 numbers)
This is good way to support your Club and hopefully win a cash prize. If you wish to join please either contact Jon Anstee or John Beal to ensure you are in the draw.
Payment can be made by: monthly standing order, cash, cheque or into Club bank acc.
AND THE WINNERS ARE…. 7 JAN
2013 Award Winners
1st XI Player of the Year – Andy Ellis
2nd XI Player of the Year – James Ellis
Midweek Player of the Year – Russell Fletcher
Sunday Team Player of the Year – TBC
Clubman of the Year – John Beal
Young Player of the Year – Peter Ellis
Neil Amor Sportsman of the Year – Elliott Townsend
Performance of the Year – Frey Nutland (4-1-7-5 v Beanacre/Melksham)
1st XI Players Player of the Year – David Beal and Michael du Boulay
2nd XI Players Player of the Year – James Ellis
Most Ducks in the Season 2013 – Simon Ellis
2013 AGM 1 NOV
The Spye Park CC 2013 AGM will be held on Thursday 14th November at The Owl (Bromham Social Club) starting at 8pm. It is a very important meeting as it is when the Officers of the Club are voted in and decisions on subs, match fees and other Club issues are made. If you wish to nominate someone or volunteer yourself for a club position please contact Jon Anstee beforehand. If nominating someone please check they are happy to stand!
This is your chance to have a say into how your Club is run so please make every effort to attend.
LAST FEW SPACES GOING FAST 29 OCT
That’s right friends it’s not long to go until the gala event of the yearand tickets are selling fast however there are still a few left so if you haven’t already done so get in touch with Helen to secure your booking. Do it now.
THE GEORGE INN, SANDY LANE 15 OCT
As the date for our end of season dinner fast approaches here is a note from our sponsors at The George – a 20% discount during November, nice. Click here to print off your voucher.
PAYMENT FOR DINNER 26 SEPT
Helen has asked if you can please email her and Paul Macy when you’re making a payment for hte Club Dinner (see below). It is the Club’s preference that you pay electronicaly and put yourname as the reference – that way Paul will know who’s paid. Please make sure you pay before the night as Helen does not want to be chasing you for cash on the day.
ANNUAL CRICKET DINNER 19 SEPT
This years annual dinner is being held at The George, Sandy Lane and is booked for Saturday 9th November. Being a smaller venue numbers will be limited so, to avoid dissapointment please have a read through the menu below and then get in touch with Helen Dolman to confirm that you’re coming and what yould like to eat. Please do this sooner rather than later. Helen’s contact details are 07940 559 605 or via email at Helen – she can also be found on Facebook and on Twitter @dollyfreckle.
Cricket Dinner Menu
2 courses £20.00 , 3 courses £25.00
Starters
Soup of the day, homemade bread
Chicken liver & pistachio pate, toast & chutney
Smoked Cornish Mackerel fillet, red slaw & mixed leaves
Creamy garlic mushrooms on toast (v)
Main Courses
Pan roasted Padfields Pork Tenderloin, Stornoway black pudding,
mustard mash, cider & beetroot sauce
Pan roasted corn fed Chicken breast, winter greens, roasted beetroot,
saute potatoes, smoked bacon & walnut sauce
Catch of the Day battered OR grilled, hand cut chips, mushy peas & tartare sauce
Vegetable & bean chilli, spring onion & coriander rice & flat bread(v)
Puddings
Fruit Crumble with custard
Lemon Posset & home made shortbread biscuit
Orange & ginger sponge, orange caramel & vanilla ice cream
English cheese board, home made bread, lavosh, chutney, celery & apple
( £2.00 supplement)
“In cooking good food, time is an essential ingredient”
Please inform us of any food allergies when ordering your meals, thank you.
Here at The George Inn our small kitchen allows 1 Chef & a great assistant to create wonderful food for your enjoyment, please keep in mind that at busy times there may be a slight delay.
Also we add a discretionary service charge of 10% to parties of 8 or more, as a gesture for our
hard working team.
WORKING PARTY – GROUND TIDY UP 16 SEPT
This Saturday (that’s 21st September) coming Andy Ellis will be managing the end of season ground tidy up and will need a few volunteers to help make things run smoothly. Many hands make light work and all that so please do get up to the ground for 10am (free bacon sarnies) and do what you can to help.
MATCH REPORT – v’s MALMESBURY 6 SEPT
Whilst The Website has been on holiday for the last couple of weeks our reporters have still been out there doing their thing us. Here’s the report of the 31 run win over Malmsbury last month…
Despite the grey clouds that circled the home of Spye Park CC for the majority of Saturday, things are beginning to look brighter for Spye as they claimed a 31 run victory over Malmesbury to record their 2nd win of the season. Spye won the toss and elected to bat in drizzly conditions, sending openers Paul Fennell and Jon Anstee De Mas out to the middle with orders from Captain Simon Ellis to entertain the bumper crowd. Fennell responded to his captain in the perfect manner with some trademark bludgeoning shots to make his way to a well played 54. Anstee De Mas, the housewives favourite, complimented Fennell beautifully with some exquisite timing and intelligent shots to score 45 in very tricky conditions. Malmesbury fought back and can only be commended for the way they bowled in what was far from ideal cricket conditions. The Spye middle and lower order spluttered and finished on 171 all out from 45 overs mainly thanks to a cracking bowling spell from Jack Ward (7-1-28-5) that included 3 wickets in an over. In response, Malmesbury found things tough thanks to a highly disciplined opening bowling spell from Sir Vivian John Beal (12-2-22-2). Only James Gillespie (57) offered any real resistance as Malmesbury were all out for 140 with wily old fox Dave Beal (8.1-33-3) and Pete Ellis (5-0-23-3) the pick of the bowling.
After the game our insipid reporter spoke to Paul Fennel,
“You know that was a great game out there today, I love it when you get games like that, really love it. I thought we bowled terrifically out there today in horrible conditions so credit must go to each and everyone one of us out there today. I thought the turning point was the catch that Hutchy took; we took real belief from that moment and wanted that win! I am just delighted for our fans who have stuck with us through thick and thin this season”. Asked about his heroic batting performance Fennell said…”I was just in the zone today, got my head down and batted well, all the work I have been doing in the nets and gym paid off today. It was warming to see my teammates all on the balcony applaud when I got to my 50 but I would really like to thank Dolly. She has been the one who has believed in me all year and kept my nose up when things got tough, so this knock is for you Dolly!” Sweet.
NEW FIXTURE SECRETARY 4 SEPT
Following the news last month that Adrian Mercer would be stepping down as Fixture Secretary, after 10 excellent years service, we were literally inundated with enquires and applications for the role. In the end though Paul Fennel has emerged as the front runner and so will be voted in at the AGM in November unless anyone else wants to put there name forward!
SPYE LOSE IN T20 CUP FINAL 3 SEPT
The Spye Park Midweek Calne & District Knockout Cup 2013 Final team knew something was wrong when they met at Beversbrook for the Calne & District Knockout Cup 2013 Final on Sunday 25th August.
It wasn’t just that the Midweek Team had been called together on a Sunday, rather than the traditional Wednesday that they were accustomed to.
It wasn’t just that the usual start time of 6.15pm (ish) had been brought forward by over 8 hours (ish).
It wasn’t just that several of the mainstay of the Calne & District Midweek League team were unavailable and their places had been taken by Club stalwarts such as Dave (He Wears a Vest) West, Martin (Gingang) Gailey, Alex (Showboat) Bowater and Jamie (Shandy) Harding.
It wasn’t just that Ron (Oh No, No, No) Swann had kindly volunteered to be the first Spye Park Midweek Calne & District Knockout Cup 2013 team umpire of 2013.
No, the main issue causing anguish, misery and trauma amongst the team was that their Leader Tom (Mighty) Mornement was unavailable and absent with leave.
The principal concern was that without Tom in the ranks (the skipper who had led the side through the qualifying rounds (the opener at home to Westinghouse, the quarter-final at home to Sutton Benger, as well as the semi-final played at a neutral venue against Bishops Cannings or Devizes), who had led his brave souls through the byes and forfeited games with barely a sweat being broken) then the challenge to win the Cup itself could not be completed.
In truth Spye Park had reached the Final without playing a single game while Calne had earned their right to be in the Final by defeating Beanacre & Melksham as well as Peterborough Arms. Calne’s will to win was evidenced by their warm-up, while Spye Park sheltered from the dribbling deluge wondering whether the game would go ahead.
Due to the inclement weather there was a short delay, but then the toss was taken, Calne elected to bat and the game was under way. There then followed a smart fielding performance backed up by some examples of excellent bowling. Calne were restricted to a run a ball and appeared short of ideas with the in/out field that had been set and their struggles to find the gaps and take the singles on offer. Spye took wickets at regular intervals to keep the pressure on, before Calne moved up through the gears in the last 3 overs to post a reasonable total of 146-6.
The highlights for Spye were: Eliot Townsend (2-25), James Ellis (2-27) and Dave West (1-19), all of whom bowled their allotted 4 overs. The only complaint was the 37 extras given to Calne.
There was a quick turnaround before Spye started their run chase. With the weather brightening then there was anticipation that 147 would be achievable. Rich Bowater started well, the first ball being despatched to the legside boundary. At the other end Russ Fletcher batted long into the innings for his top scoring 24, before being dismissed in unusual circumstances. A quick short ball from Calne skipper Dan Knight had ricocheted off Russ’ chest (blood and guts everywhere), into his chin and then onto his glove and into the keeper’s hands as Russ was in the process of being castled and hitting the ground with a bang. His disgruntlement was not appeased by the sight of Umpire Swann strutting towards him down the wicket with his finger in the air to emphasise the fact that he was out and would he please get to his feet and vacate the crease as expeditiously as was possible.
The Spye middle order were not used to the pace of the Calne bowlers which was a little different to the pace of a Sunday afternoon friendly and were all out for 120. Matt (Prior) Hutchins put up some resistance towards the end but the writing was on the ball.
Highlights for Calne were Dan Knight’s figures of 3-15 from 4 overs. Calne were the stronger team and worthy winners – congratulations. RB
CLUB DINNER 17 AUG
This year’s Club Dinner will be held at the George, Sandy Lane (our pub) on Saturday 9 Nov 2013.
Further details and menus to follow shortly but cost should be max £25 per person. This is a good social night where all the Club gets together and the annual awards are made. Please make every effort to attend. If you are interested please let either Helen Dolman or your captain know.
FIXTURE SECRETARY 17 AUG
After 10 years of hard labour as our fixture secretary Adrian Mercer has decided to stand down from the post. We are looking for a willing (or unwilling) volunteer to take over. Most of the work takes place out of season during the winter. It is your chance to contribute to the running of your Club. If you are interested in standing for the position please contact John Beal to let him know and if you want to find out more about what’s involved please talk to Adrian. We’d like to take this opportunity of saying “Thank You” to Adrian for all the hard work he’s put in over the years.
MAY CASTLES SWINDON CIVIL SERVICE IN LAST BALL THRILLER 12 AUG
There are any number of headlines that we could have gone with today but seeing as young George May was asked to bowl the last over it seems only fitting that he gets the headline.
It all started back in August 2011, yes that’s the last time Spye Park 1st XI actually won a game (for those interested it was against Great Bedwyn at home – only Tom, Dave and Old Man played in that game and this one). Since then it’s fair to say that there has been a steady decline in fortunes, well on Saturday 10th August 2013 at around 7.30pm that decline came to an earth shattering end. It may be a temporary end but it is definitely an end.
It was a lovely summer’s afternoon in beautiful Swindon (sic) and Spye batted first against Swindon Civil Service (SCS). The openers were cautious, keen not to give it away too early. Fen’s and Jonny nudged and nurdled their way through the opening overs, occasionally lashing out at wider deliveries until Jonny was undone by one that did keep remarkably low! Mornement, making his first appearance for the 1st XI this season came in at 3 – he and Fens kept their cool before beginning to get hold of things putting on 64 in 12 overs. Fens was the first to go bowled going back when he should have come forward for 38, Mornement followed shortly after caught behind for 36. So, after a promising start Spye where 90 odd for 3 from 28 over’s. Dave and Bilbo Baggins were at the crease looking to keep things ticking over, they did for a while until both were undone by balls that kept a bit low – Simon came and went in an over but scored 10 runs, which was at the very least, entertaining. It was left to Piers de Boulay to take control of the situation and marshal the remaining Spye batters, which he did very well. They scampered and slapped where they could nudging the score along nicely – but after a couple of run outs, Old Man was last man out leaving Piers 18* and Spye with a respectable, if not very commanding, 162 all out on a slow low wicket.
The 2nd half started slowly, Spye will tell you that it started tightly but really it was slow. Old Man and Fens opened the bowling and both were miserly. Old Man fired down his darts at leg stump with boring repeatedness whilst Fens mixed up his bags of swingers and cutters with some all-sorts that he found in his pocket! After they’d both bowled their full allotment of 12 overs a look at the book tells us that Old Man finished with for 1 for 21 and Fens had 2 for 22 – very good. At this stage Spye were sitting pretty, they were in the box seat and SCS had it all to do. And that is what they nearly did. SCS put together an ever improving partnership that grew into something quite dangerous.
Scott McNeil who earlier in the day had bowled his 12 overs for 35 was now trying to rescue the game and in a partnership of 76 with Maycock nearly stuck it up Spye. Olly Emerson and Dave were bowling by this stage, both of them desperately searching for a break through which eventually came via an awful Emerson full toss that Maycock lumped to Bilbo at midwicket. Dave got in on the act as well bowling McNeil for 60 and following that up with another. Meanwhile George May had quietly replaced Olly and was gamely bowling his offies as if his life depended on it. SCS continued to keep themselves in the game and going into the 44th over they needed 21 runs to win. Dave bowled the dangerous Thatcher and the pressure was further relieved until Dave bowled a leg side full toss which was not only deemed too high but was also put away for 4! He did redeem himself though by following that up with 3 dot balls.
So, here it is. 14 to win, SCS are 7 wickets down and George May has 6 balls to bowl. Dave and Simon take their time to set the field. George’s first ball is slow and full outside off stump but the SCS batter moves across and laps it down to the vacant fine leg boundary. The next ball is smeared for 2 and the third ball is lapped again to fine leg. Now, SCS only need 4 off 3! George’s 4th ball is a dot and the 5th is skied out to Jonny at cow corner but, he drops it and SCS scamper back for 2. So, finally it comes down the last ball of the day. SCS need 2 to win and 1 to tie! Spye need a wicket (or a dot ball) to win. After two years without a win, Dave and Simon decide to bring the field in, put pressure on the batters they said. Then they tweak the field. The non-stricker helpfully informs his partner that all he has to do is get a bat on it and they’ll tie the game – but his partner has been stricking the ball really well, why wouldn’t he go for the glory, after all he’s played a blinder so far in the over? George May meanwhile, cool as you like has been quietly getting himself into the zone. Standing at the top of his run up staring at the stumps 22 yards away, just patiently waiting until everything and everyone is in position, focussing on what he has to do. Finally everything is ready, in he comes, right-arm over the wicket. Full and quicker than before, he beats the batsman and the ball smashes into middle stump – Game Over and Spye have won by 1 run! Naturally there were cheers, hugs and some back slapping, there were even some tears, but hey who cares after 2 years of weekly defeats Spye had finally broken the habit and they’d won.
Once the autographs had been signed, the crowds had dispersed and everyone had calmed down a bit – Simon Ellis spoke to the assembled media on the outfield. “Yeah yeah man, we (*ing) won, init. I is knowing that we woz close to (*ing) winnin a (*ing) game – we should have won de last 2 (*ing) games but the (*ing) rain did for us and dat. So we got wot we (*ing) deserved today – a (*ing) great win for The Mighty Spye. X”……… NOTE to readers – we have tried to replicate exactly what Simon was saying here, without the swear words, we hope you get the jist of it. The “X” represents a kiss, apparently!
The slightly more articulate Dave Beal also spoke to the media. “I’m big into stats me and this win ranks right up there with the some of the very best in my time at Spye – I’d say it was in my top 7.5% of all time wins (that’s truly fascinating Dave) – no but, seriously having Mornement back at 3 (22.22% of the teams runs) was a huge boost for us today, he bats like Trott does for England, cool and calm under pressure, he looked really good out there. Fens (statically Spye’s MVP) had a great all round game, and the Old Man did well for an, Old Man? And of course George kept his cool really well under pressure – that was good! But it is a team game and as a team and a Club this is a great moment for us and one that we’ll enjoy tonight. Thank you, I’m Dave Beal, you can still get hold of my book “Dave Beal – Philosophical Thinker – Deep Heat keeps me human and other thoughts from the mind of Dr Dave.” They’ve still got some copies on that Amazon”.
QUIZ QUESTION: Which 2 Spye Park players have played in both winning Saturday teams (1 each for 1st & 2nd) this season? Answers on a post card please. Either the post card sent from furthest away or the one with the topless lady on the front, will win.
BREAKING NEWS – Ist XI WIN for the first time in 2 years – report to follow 12 AUG
WAYNE’S WORLD 2 (STARRING HUGGY) 29 JUNE
Buoyed by recent performances and the sunshine, Wayne led his band of merry boys on a jaunty little jig up at Spye Park last weekend. If he had written the script it would have gone something like this. Win the toss, bat first, personally bat through holding the innings together for a cool 70 odd (and hit a six!) – be supported by the other batters and then watch Frey hit his first ball for 6, again. Ideally Wayne wanted 200, in the end he had the settle for 188 for 4 from the 45 overs. Yes they probably should have scored more but it was a good effort all round and Wayne went into tea, beaming. Now, Wayne likes his tea and doesn’t tend to be rushed by anything so whilst he finished his cake and contemplated how well he’d batted the rest of the team got on with warming up for the 2nd half.
Young guns, Jack Hanks and Andy Sparks opened the bowling but couldn’t contain the excellent Warminster openers who looked far too good for Spye until Jack induced a miss hit in the 10th over to have the dangerous Mark Coxon-Tenty caught at point with the score on 54. In his next over Jack bowled the Warminster skipper and suddenly things looked a bit better for Spye, unfortunately though we were leaking a boundary an over and needed more wickets to stem the tide. It was at this time that Wayne’s bowling plans and tactical nous paid off – on came old man Hughes who was asked to bowl a couple of tight overs and slow things down a bit. As we counted off the dot balls the pressure built up and it wasn’t long before mistakes started to happen – in only his 2nd over Huggy picked up 2 wickets. Frey Nutland was now on at the other end gamely giving Warminster a chance to win the game(!) but Huggy was having none of it – he continued to bowl wicket to wicket, he gave nothing away and using his many years of experience he picked up wickets regularly. Frey did get one as well, a full toss hitting the top of off stump. Elliot Townsend tried some of his flighted leggies but struggled to find the right length to trouble the batters, never-mind though coz Huggy was on fire and continued to rip out the Warminster batters almost at will. In the end he finished with career best (that is saying something) figures of 9-4-14-7 and all was temporarily well in the World.
Afterwards in the media tent Wayne was in jubilant form – “I told you 2 weeks ago that there was a win in this team and here it is. Yes one or two of us have stood out today but cricket is a team game and as a unit this team has a bright future – I’m extremely proud of how well we stuck to our tasks today, we batted in partnerships, we bowled, mostly, tightly and fielded really well – we deserved this win, and mark my words there will be more.” Never shy in saying what he really thinks Huggy added, “Well, I juz bowled at them three sticks and I showed them youngun’s how to do it didn’t I. If it weren’t for that wicket keeping dropping one I’d have had 8, dam fool. Just as well I kept hitting them sticks, init?”
WAYNE’S WORLD 17 JUNE
With victories in short supply this season Wayne’s Warriors did extremely well to make Division 5 league leaders Buscott Park battle hard for their victory last Saturday up at the Park. Leading from the front Wayner almost batted through the innings for an excellently well-crafted 58 (from only 926 balls!) in support there were little cameos from Frey (who hit his first ball for 6) and Lander who helped to up the tempo with Wayne towards the end. At tea Spye were happy with their 134 for 7, but it was never going to be enough to defend and Spye knew that it was wickets they needed if they were to win.
Unfortunately a couple of dropped catches took the edge off what was an excellent bowling and fielding performance from Spye’s youngsters. Firstly Josh and Jack bowled tight probing lines, restricting the “a lot more” mature Buscott openers brilliantly and giving nothing away. The first wicket came in the 11th over with a smart caught & bowled from Jack. Frey Nutland and Elliot Townsend replaced the openers and both got amongst the wickets – Frey being the pick with 4 fer.
In the end though the Buscott tail-enders batted very sensibly and saw their team home with only 1 wicket to spare. Afterwards in the media centre Wayne was full of praise for his (mostly) young team, “you can’t fault their enthusiasm, they wanted this victory and whilst at tea we were happy we never really thought we’d win with only 134, so to push the league leaders this close is a really important step forward in the development of our team. There’s a victory in this lot and it’s not far away.”
OVERDUE SUBS 17 JUNE
Just a quick reminder that Club membership is overdue and as it is an important element of the Club’s income prompt payment would be much appreciated.
Family membership – £45
Senior membership – £40
Junior membership (21 and under, in full time education or unemployed) – £10
Ways to pay:
1. By cheque or cash to your captain
2. Direct into Club bank account – sort code 30-92-63 account no. 00278077 (please let Paul Macey know in order to tie payment to member)
3. Cheque by post to Paul Macey 30 Wellington Square Melksham Wilts SN12 6QX
100 CLUB
The 100 Club is an important way in which the Club raises income to ensure that we can maintain and improve our ground, pitch and facilities.
It is basically a prize draw with 4 draws per year and 4 cash prizes per draw ranging from £50 to £10.
Tickets are £12 per year or if you buy 3 you’ll get one free (£36 for 4 numbers)
This is good way to support your Club and hopefully win a cash prize. If you wish to join please either contact Jon Anstee or John Beal to ensure you are in the draw.
Payment can be made by: monthly standing order, cash, cheque or into Club bank account.
FULL FLIGHT 12 MAY
With the 2013 season now in full flight here is a quick round up for the action so far – Simon’s 1st XI have had a gruelling start losing both their first 2 games, Wayne on the other hand has secured his first win of the season as 2nd XI captain with a stunning “for feet” win over Westinghouse. Meanwhile the Sundays also started their season with a good game and a win over Fairland & Portbury. So this week sees The Midweek Team start their campaign – they are away at Bishops Canning’s on Wednesday evening – it’s not too late to get involved if you want to.
NOT LONG NOW…………………………. 22 APR
Oh, yes Spye Park People – the actual cricket season is not far away now, in-fact there are 3 games to bring to your attention – on Saturday there’s a pre-season friendly at home to Westinghouse – speak to Simon Ellis, on Sunday the mighty Georgians are away at Fairland & Portbuty – speak to Digger and straight into the competitive spirit, sprint the Wednesday team as they take on Westinghouse in the K-O T20 Cup – Tom Mornement is managing that one. Please do get in touch if you’re available for any of these games.
And if that wasn’t enough to get you excited outdoor nets begin in anger on Tuesday (that’s tomorrow) from 6ish – there’s even a practice pitch ready to go – what more do you need?
JUNIOR CRICKET STARTS ON THURSDAY 2nd MAY 22 APR
Andy Ellis and his team of coaches will be running the junior training/coaching sessions from next Thursday. So that’sThursday 2nd May from 6.30pm.
CONGRATULATIONS JT 21 APR
No, he’s not produced any children over the winter months (unlike a number of our esteemed Club Men) instead he’s been out pounding the roads of Wiltshire in his bid to complete the London Marathon in aid of multiple sclerosis. Unofficially we are very pleased to report that he did complete it – officially (and assuming that he did finish it) we don’t know what time he did it in – if anyone knows the answer to this please do let us know. In-fact if JT is out there do get in touch big man we’d love to hear from you.
ANYONE FANCY HAVING A NET – OUTSIDE! 18 APR
That’s right website fan’s this weekend Andy Ellis is going to be rolling out the matting, cranking up the bowling machine and listening for the sound of leather and willow – it can only mean 1 thing (apart from guaranteed rain that is!) – the cricket season is only a couple of weeks away! So if you fancy a net and have some time to help with the odd job around the pavilion then you’d be most welcome from 10.30am on Sunday morning. Up the Spye!
RECRUITING NEW PLAYERS AND SUPPORTERS FOR 2013
Talking to Sky Sports News this week, Spye Park Legend Jon Bathe shocked the cricket world when he blew the lid on the issue that is “club loyalty”. “Yeah, from what I know of the on-going crisis, 63.5% of all Club Cricketers in other Clubs are totally disaffected at this time of the year”. He went on to say, “Other Clubs lack ambition and focus, well that’s not true here. At Spye Park we know exactly what we want to achieve and how we’re going to do it. Spye is a cricket club steeped in history (you know it’s older than Coca Cola), boasts famous ex-players (Vic Richards no less) and is situated in the beautiful grounds of Spye Park – what more could you possibly want. We enjoy our cricket, we have a good laugh and we all muck in together to get things done but above all that we have the best club website in Wiltshire”.
So if you’re one of the 63.5% of Club Cricketers who isn’t sure that you’re current club really knows what’s all about, then now is the perfect time to join Spye Park CC and realise you’re potential. The future’s bright, the future’s Spye Park – check out the website and then call Dave Beal to discuss your signing on fee, your favourite curry and other things. If you are interested in playing or finding out more about Spye Park CC then please contact either Simon Ellis 07414 130 355 or Wayne Young 07981 473 337.
INDOOR NETS 22 FEB
The Club indoor nets will be held at Calne Leisure Centre on Sunday 24th March, 7th April and 14th April 2013 between 4.30 and5.30pm. It is your chance to turn your arm over again and get rid of those early season aches and pains before we playing and for our batters to get their eye in again. Please make every effort to attend and support your club.
NEEDED – CAPTAIN AND VICE-CAPTAIN FOR THE WEDNESDAY TEAM 11 FEB
Your Club needs you. At the time of writing the Club does not have a volunteer to Captain or vice for the Midweek team. And this despite the fact that Spye Park CC were joint winners of the league last year. Captain Russ gave heart and soul to the job for 3 years but emotionally stood down at the end of last season saying that he had taken the team as far as he could and that it was time for someone else to pick up the reigns. As yet no one has. So we have been asked to put a plea out for someone to pick up the mantle. Someone brave, fearless, a winner, a leader of men and a tactician to rival Our Russ! All interested candidates should apply for the job by getting in touch with John Beal and stating their case boldly. Don’t be shy, get in touch.
Infact here at Website Towers we’d be pleased to hear who you think would make a good Midweek Captain – let us know your thoughts.
TEA LADY (PERSON) NEEDED 11 FEB
Spye Park Cricket Club is looking for a new Tea Lady or Man.
We are looking for someone who could do justice to our pavilion and lovely setting by making the “cricket teas” on Saturday afternoons during the summer months. Some pointers include;
- It wouldn’t have to be every week if you don’t want to but the season runs from May to August,
- It’s a paid job (within reason – to be discussed!)
- We are quite a nice bunch (although we can’t speak for our opposition) but we are quite serious about our “cricket tea’s”,
- An interest in cricket, whilst useful is not absolutely necessary, but sitting in the sun enjoying the most traditional of English pastimes is a pleasant way to spend a Saturday afternoon!
If you’re interested or want to know more about what’s expected then please contact Tom Mornement on 07815 865 415 or tom@purplehousehr.com.
WELCOME TO THE WEBSITE 2013 7 FEB
Happy New Year to all our many readers and supporters – here at Website Towers, we would like to start the year by congratulating everyone who has something to be pleased about, well done.
Over the winter, whilst there have been some changes in leadership, there are some things that never change. Our pavilion is still the most handsome pavilion in the county, cricket is still the best sport in the World, Summer always follows Spring and here at Website Towers we’re ramping up for another season of runs, wickets and other stuff! We do have a slight quandary though – with Richie now doing what all ex-skippers do these days, ie plying his trade as a media whore – who should our new bunny?
As we get ready for the season please be sure to check the website regularly for updates, fixtures and news – it could be fun, it might not be but all the same please come back!
MINUTES – JAN & FEB COMMITTEE MINUTES ATTACHED 7 FEB
That’s right people your club committee has already met twice this year and if you’re keen to know what they said why not have a read of the minutes.
TIM HUES – PERFECT FACE FOR RADIO 3 JAN
Happy New Year Website fans, we’re all back to work here at Website Towers and are delighted to bring you this news so early in the year. Tim Hues (42), of Poulshot Lodge Farm Shop will be on Newsbeat (Radio 1) at 5.45pm this evening talking about the weather and all that (should be worth listening into then) and he would be delighted if as many people as possible listened to it and then got in touch with him………….
JT DOES THE RUNNING MAN 12 DEC
That’s right website fans our very own JT is going to be running the London Marathon 2013. He’s raising money for multiple sclerosis and is after our support. Please sponsor him if you can.