VISITING JOHNS RELATIVES

By Brian Sanderson,

After a rainy night I set out with the two Ronies,Stansfield and Deaton to the Darlington and District Cricket League.

We were going to some more new grounds in the League after our visit two weeks ago.The first ground had been recommended by a number of people Raby Castle.The ground is situated in the grounds of the castle.At one end there was three trees within the boundary and another one had been cut down this week.They were playing Lands who fielded first.The match was late starting as the players were not there on time and had to start with a sub fielder.There were no umpires which is disappointing.It started to rain even though none had been forecast so we moved on.

Next a few miles away was Ingleton who were playing Cliffe.The grounds has a nice view over to the hills and a new pavilion which had been built recently.We started talking to a Leeds Rugby Supporter who travelled down to watch matches.There had been a lot of rain during the week which caused the pitch to be damp and the outfield was long.Ingleton were batting and had lost four wickets for just over one hundred.

Moving on to the most scenic ground Cliffe were the seconds were playing Cockerton.The ground is situated in a bowl with sheep grazing in the fields and the sun was shining.Brillent sight.We decided to have tea there when the away side were bowled out.The tea ladies very kindly allowed us to eat and drink free. A very nice gesture.I think this ground should be on everybodies diary to visit at least once a year.

Next ground was Cockerton who were playing Middleton on Tees who were batting.Cockerton had been bowled out in thirty overs but had taken eight wickets when we left.The ground is situated in Darlington and nearby was the Darlington.R.A.club who are in the North Yorkshire and South Durham League.

The Second Team were playing Saltburn Seconds who had scored 271.To get into the ground you have to go through the bar area.Ron Deaton had played his last football match on the ajoining ground.The pavilion had not been altered since 1950,s and was due to be knocked down.

Moving on to Haughton were Joh Winn relatives used to play.The seconds were playing Barningham Seconds.The pavilion is very old and holds the picture John had photographed.

We called into Gilling West were Richmond iv play but the match had finished.

Please visit Cliffe ground especially at tea time.