THE family of the late Graham Sparks have presented a bench to Wellington Cricket Club at the Playing Field in memory of one of the club’s biggest supporters.

The presentation was made at the tea interval during Wellington's home game against Shapwick and Polden in the Somerset Division of the West of England Premier Cricket League.

Wellington went on to win by seven wickets and to move up to sixth in the table.

Graham's son Alex played a big part in Wellington's win, scoring 51 not out and sharing in an unbroken fourth wicket stand of 107 with Sri Lankan all-rounder Lakshan Edirisinghe, who was 55 not out, as the home side gained a comfortable victory.

Earlier Wellington had bowled out Shapwick for 213, the visitors recovering from 49-6. Wellington's opening bowlers Toby Stirzaker (4-33) and Desave (2-32) did the damage, with Desave going on to make 88 after opening the innings, his knock coming off 62 balls.

Graham Sparks, well known locally for his antique furniture and restoration workshop, sadly passed away last September.

Graham himself played many games for Wellington and on several occasions played alongside his daughter Nicole, also a cricketer. During his days as a player he would often step in to umpire.

He was also a sponsor of the club. He loved to watch cricket and spent most of his Saturday afternoons watching both home and away fixtures.

Meanwhile, Wellington will be looking to make it four wins in a row on Saturday, July 5, when they have another match at the Playing Field - against North Perrott, who are lying second in the table, only two points behind the new leaders Taunton Deane. It is tight at the top with only five points separating the leading five teams.

Previous leaders Temple Cloud have slipped back to fourth after losing to Bridgwater 2nd XI.