KELSEY REFLECT ON BEST SEASON

From Mike Owen, Secretary, South Kelsey CC

A well-attended South Kelsey CC AGM took place at the Hope Tavern, Holton-Le-Moor.
Chairman Phil Pearson reported how the club had transformed itself over the past seven years. Back in 2003 long-standing members were reaching the end of their active contribution to the club. Some moved away from the area whilst others retired. The club had adopted a new club facility at Lysaght's (area of outstanding natural beauty) where facilities were basic and the quality of the table and outfield just acceptable. Player numbers had declined and the fulfilling fixtures became an ever-increasing challenge.
Phil realised that if South Kelsey CC were to survive there would need to be a long and steady programme of rebuilding based on new committed members. Also ground improvements had to be a priority, plus a stable management team. The usual reaction is to find a quick fix but they invariably fail, as history shows, and lead to instant failure. For several years the progress was slow. Keeping the club together was thanks to a few dedicated individuals.
It was rebuilt on sound principles, keeping the spirit of village cricket and personal values intact.
The club is continuing to change and Phil sees another phase in its development.
If the club is to thrive it needs to have a core of active members who are prepared to keep driving the club forward and strengthen its status. Phil considers we now have such a group in our membership. He sees them further developing the club as they think fit.
South Kelsey CC's first team finished in their highest position in the history of the club (4th in the Lincs League Premier Div). The second team missed promotion on the last game of the season.
Player resource is high but further additions would always be accepted for committed players of the skill level applicable for either the Premier Division or Division Four.
The ground had received excellent scores from the visiting umpires for the table and the outfield. The equipment in use to maintain the pitch and pavilion facilities was modern but security was a problem that had been addressed.

OFFICIALS ELECTED
Chairman Phil Pearson
Secretary Michael Owen
Treasure Jim Denniss
First team Capt Lol Waghorn, Vice-Captain Steve Wright
2nd team Capt Tony Potter, Vice-Captain Barry Thompson
Committee: Chairman, Secretary, L Waghorn B Thompson, M Meadows, K Wijayaratna, A McFarlane
Scorers: Chris Cook (1st team) Ann (2nd team); Teas, Ron and Margaret Barr.

Nets to be organised at Caistor by L Waghorn (Several members had played indoor cricket through the winter months).
Ground preparation to be discussed at the next committee meeting; West Wold Midweek Cricket League to be reviewed in the future to enable full energies to be directed the two Lincs league sides.
Marcus Meadows gave a very detailed paper on a way to raise funds for the club but it would rely on members to implement his ideas (Handout passed around).

South Kelsey CC has a philosophy of providing an informal and friendly relationship that always appreciates the efforts of each and every member.
IF ANY PLAYERS ARE INTERESTED IN BEING PART OF THIS CLUB THEY SHOULD CONTACT THE SECRETARY MIKE OWEN ON MOBILE 07775906999. ALSO E-MAIL MIKE OWEN WHO WILL OBTAIN FULL DETAILS AND PASS THEM ON TO THE TWO CAPTAINS ACCORDINGLY.