Raby Castle CC looks forward to new season

AT Raby Castle CC’s 2016 annual meeting, club officials and members reflected on another successful year.
2016 was tinged with sadness following the death in April of club patron Lord Barnard. Raby Castle CC has indeed lost a great supporter and true friend.
The first team finished third in the A Division of the Darlington and District Cricket League for the second season in a row.
Matthew Dent topped the batting averages with 969 runs at 46 runs per innings. This included a double century (204 not out) against Rockcliffe Park III where he also featured in a club record third wicket stand of 311 with Joe Haines (99no).
Matthew also topped the bowling averages with 53 wickets at 11.7 runs per wicket. His 7-17 against Barton was the season’s best bowling performance.
The second team once again consolidated their place in the B Division finishing in a comfortable mid table sixth position.
Phil Wills topped the batting averages with 890 runs at 59 and the bowling averages with 28 wickets at 22.2.
Youth development continues at the club thanks to the efforts of Phil Wills, whose son Jamie played for Durham U13s last season.
Second XI captain Paul Hedley stated a number of young players had performed well, particularly Alex Lamb and Edward Birch.
The whole committee were thanked for their hard work throughout the year, together with Ian Dent and Mark Poole for the work they put in preparing the ground for every game and the tea ladies for all their help and support.
Treasurer Betty Poole reported that the club was in a healthy financial position and she thanked all those who had raised club funds.
Club stalwarts Peter Jackson, Ian Dent, Mark Poole and Howard Wilson were made honorary club members.
Indoor nets
Raby Castle CC are looking forward to holding weekly indoor net sessions at Barnard Castle School starting on Tuesday, January 24.
New players are always welcome – contact first team captain Joe Dent (07899 693748) or second team captain Paul Hedley (07709 654950) for details.
Race night
The club is holding its annual race night on Saturday, January 28, at the Wheatsheaf Inn, Staindrop. Races start at 8pm.