Cricket: Bates scoops Vale of Leven awards

Oct 31 2008 by Laura McLachlan, Lennox Herald (main ed)

STEPHEN Bates dominated the Vale of Leven Cricket Club’s playing awards this year – scooping a fantastic four gongs.

Not content with winning the Saturday batting trophy, the Saturday bowling trophy and the Captain’s Award, Bates proved he provided the best of both worlds for the Vale, before adding to his haul with the specialised trophy for best all-rounder.

Alex McAdam won the midweek league/friendly matches batting trophy, while Chris Dalby won the midweek league/friendly matches bowling.

Young Ivan Lawrence won the fielding trophy by taking seven catches in 10 games. The President's Shield for the greatest contribution to the club went to Tony Duncan for his work with the local schools.

The club members celebrated their recent fourth place success on the league, but outgoing club captain, Brian Stavert, added his reflection on what had been nevertheless a frustrating season, thanks to the poor summer weather.

Brian thanked everyone for their efforts, while club president and treasurer Hugh Hutchison reported that the club’s finances were stable.

However, it was not all good news for the club, with income down on last year due to having fewer members, lack of sponsors and, of course, losing matches to the weather.

Of the club’s other successes this year, one of the most important is the club’s introduction of the sport into local schools.

The club officials for the 2009 season were voted in with John Birnie becoming club captain as well as match secretary.

Hugh Hutchinson remains as Club President and treasurer, with Brian Stavert continuing as club secretary. Warwick Darkins will retain responsibility for the ground and Tony Duncan continues as general committee member.

The Vale are the only cricket club in West Dunbartonshire and are looking to recruit new players, especially from the Clydebank, Dumbarton and Vale of Leven areas.

The Vale is always looking for anyone who may wish to take the game up or is looking for a club to play for.

Contact Hugh on 0141 951 8133 for more details or check out the web site at http://valeofleven.play-cricket.com

Winter coaching commences on January 8, 2009, at 7pm in the Vale of Leven Academy.