SPOUT HOUSE NETTLES AND MIDGES

By Brian Sanderson,

After Kirkstall I joined Ron Deaton to go to the Feversham League.The match was Spout Houses against Duncombe Park.The ground is situated on the B1257 road between Helmsley and Cleveland about five miles outside Hemsley.It is situated on the right hand side behind the Sun Inn which was closed.The pub is run by William Ainsley who,s grandfather was the club secretary for 72 years.There is a stone at the top of the field which commemorate the fact.

The field is sloping down to the road with the pitch is sculptured in the middle with uncut grass round in the field.When we arrived the pitch was being rolled by a large stone roller which has the teams intials on the side. The first person we meet was Mike Amos who is The Northern Echo sport reporter who visits the league once a year and writes a report on his visit.Ron had known him when he worked at British Rail about thirty-five years ago.Mike had read Off The Beaten Track written by Tony, Brian and Mick and had been in touch with Tony.

Duncombe Park batted first and managed to reach 51 in 18 overs.The only way to score was to hit in the air as the grass was to long for the ball travel through.On of the Umpires was Charles Allenby who is the sectretary of the League who had been in touch with Ron.There were two other spectators from Stockton who travelled to watch Spout Houses during the season.In the club house there is a framed score sheet of Prince Harry playing in the match here.

Spout Houses batted and were 3 for 3 after 8 overs so were behind the rate.When we were leaving they had reached 24  for 6 in 14 overs with the opening bat 8 not out.During the second half the midges started to attack us and I stuck my hand on a nettle.

The ground has great views but last night it was cold and damp.Mike Amos states that you are not a Proffesional Cricketer Watcher until you have been to this Ground so we have both joined the club.
Mike report inThe Northern Echo will appear in a fortnight and look forward to reading a professional report.