WELLINGTON Cricket Club held their annual dinner and dance at Oake Manor Golf Club - a venue which had not been used by the club for some years and the event proved a great hit with members and friends.

Club chairman Mark Salter reviewed the most successful season in living memory. The first X1 had an unbeaten league season and were promoted to the West of England Premier League Division Two. The 2nd X1 won their league and will next year play their cricket in Division Three of the Somerset Cricket League. Finally, on the day of the event, it was confirmed that the 3rd X1 had also been promoted, making it a clean sweep for all Wellington’s Saturday League teams.

The 1st X1 season saw Wellington employ an overseas player for the first time in many years and Sandaken (Dilly) Pirathana proved a great success as he complemented the talents of a good young team that was always able to find ways to win games of cricket that were often in the balance.

The 2nd X1 benefited from better availability and where able to pick some younger players who thrived in the environment created by more experienced players. The batting award was won by James Brackenbury and the bowling by Alex Derbridge , while the players player was Oliver Hunt.

The 3rd team also benefitted from better availability and will look to build on the encouraging performances put in by some of the younger players who gained their first experience of men’s cricket. The batting award went to head groundsman Des Campbell and the bowling award went to Connor Wickenden.

Off the field the chairman thanked all those who contributed to an active and busy social scene that kept the bar full throughout the season. Special thanks went to Ali Campbell, Amamda Moysey, Sharon Frost and Danielle Campbell who planned, organized, catered and delivered some fantastic events which were enjoyed by both members and friends alike.

After a difficult season in 2022, the re-laid pitches are settling down and producing some fine wickets with plenty of runs in them. Head groundsman Des Campbell is looking to keep improving the standard of the ground to ensure the facility meets the standard required for next season.

This year was the first the club was able to present the Duncan Short Cup for the Young Player of the Year. The award was made by Paul Short, Duncan’s son, to Toby Stirzaker who has continued his wicket taking from last year and spearheaded the 1st X1 attack this year.

The Clubman of the Year Trophy was presented to Arron Campbell for his outstanding leadership and dedication over the last few years that has been a major component in the success achieved by the 1st X1. The award was presented by Rae Moysey who has supported the club wholeheartedly over the last 40 years.