Duo take top honours for services to cricket

THE Drakes Huddersfield League’s prestigious Lady Sykes Candlesticks have been won by Mark Firth of Clayton West and James Newsome of Kirkburton.

It’s the top accolade for current players – awarded for outstanding service to their clubs and cricket in general – and the 2018 recipients could not be more deserving.

Jedi Sports Championship club Clayton West put forward Firth for the award after a lifetime of dedication to the Back Lane club.

“Mark has been involved in the club from playing as a junior for the last 38 years and has played senior cricket for the same length of time – and has been his only club,” said a citation from Clayton West.

“He has undertaken the captain’s role on numerous occasions for both teams, which he has really enjoyed as he is a good leader and has a lot of respect from all players, committee, and members of the club.

“Mark still plays every Saturday for either team, where required, and is a big driving force in bringing the next generation of junior players through and to play in the correct manner and to their best ability.”

The club also commended Firth’s contribution off the field.

“Not only a player, but he has been the club secretary for around 30 years and is involved heavily in all fundraising and projects undertaken by the club,” added the citation.

“Mark has been involved with a small group that has spent hours and effort regarding the land and