Bertus sweeps up at awards
IT may be winter outside but the players of Macclesfield Cricket Club took the opportunity of the festive break to hold their annual presentation evening.
Presided over by Barney Cutbill, there was a chance to reflect on a wet and ultimately disappointing 2016 season, with the relegation of the firsts from the Cheshire League Premier Division but also look forward with high hopes to warmer days in the spring.
The first team awards were dominated by Aussie Nick Bertus as he swept up the Player of the Year, Batsman of the Year and Best Fielder awards.
Skipper Rob Porter commented how much ‘Bert’ and girlfriend Dom had become integrated into the club and were most popular guests. It was good to see that on his return to Sydney, Bert had carried on his good form with the bat.
The first team bowler award went to John Birchall.
For the second team, captain Craig Melrose reported a pleasing season as the team easily held their own in the premier division.
It was good to see new faces picking up the prizes with Fin McCance taking both Player and Batsman of the Year, and Stu Parkes the bowling prize.
Karl Burgess gave the third team report.
After a poor start they finished third in the league, a case of what might have been.
There was a good blend of youth and experience in the side but it was experience that triumphed when the awards were announced.
Dave Cowen snapped up the Player of the Year whereas it was a Moores father and son double for the other two prizes, Tony took bowler and Mitch batsman. Miles Bradshaw was a popular choice for most improved player.
The fourths, a partnership with Langley CC, ably led by Matt Waite, saw the development of many younger players as the transition from junior to senior cricket as made. James Coombes was both player and batsman of the year whilst Alex Welsh took the bowler.
Barney felt it was important to recognise all those people that help the club off the field, and particular thanks were given to Alycia Sutton and her bar staff, Jimmy Yeo and Chris Moores on the grounds and the committee led by chairman Simon Griffiths. Particular mention was given to Chrome Motors, East Cheshire Mortgages and GF Holding for their sponsorship.
However the most important award was the last and that was the Clubman of the Year.
This year it was shared by two people who if they were not around, it would soon be noticed.
Graham Mason and Steve Littler quietly get on, with no fuss, maintaining the common areas, keeping the grass cut and the trees pruned so that the Victoria Road ground is a venue that is proud to host cricket.
It is on the hard work and dedication of such individuals that clubs throughout the country thrive.
The announcement was greeted by a most appropriate loud and sustained round of applause!