Sponsors Message
Firstly, we at Anthony Axford (Timber Merchants) Ltd. would like to say how proud we are, once again, to be official sponsors of the Bolton Cricket League for 2007.
The 2006 cricket season was a very exciting season which was blessed with mainly hot, sunny weather and an exiting finish to the League season, with Walkden winning the league title in the very last match of the season. Tonge should also be congratulated on their 2006 Hamer Cup final win over Greenmount.
One thing apparent from the 2006 season was the increasing number of talented young cricketers coming through the ranks. The Ashes success of 2005 really seamed to inspire many young players to work hard at their game. It was also good to see so many junior players joining clubs and it was a pleasure to see junior cricket thriving.
There is no doubt, players like Lancashire's Freddie Flintoff have inspired many youngsters to take up cricket and many young players look up to this new generation of "super hero" in a way that young footballers look up to players like David Beckham. Although we won't talk too much about our 2006/2007 "Down Under" Ashes tour, England still managed to win a trophy by winning the one-day triangular series!
Getting back to the Bolton League I personally enjoyed my 2006 cricket season opening the batting at Farnworth and once more enjoyed the rivalry and camaraderie amongst many of the teams in the Bolton League. Despite win, lose or draw, it was always good to have a drink after the game with the opposition and to reflect on the day's play.
Once more I would like to give a BIG thank you to all the League Umpires who do a fabulous job; to all the hard-working groundstaff who keep all of the grounds in tip-top condition and all the volunteers who ensure that everything is right on match days.
We have fortunately had a relatively mild winter and it is good to see many of the grounds looking in good condition already. (I am writing this at the begining of March).
May we at Anthony Axford's Ltd wish everyone a very enjoyable 2007 cricket season which, no doubt, will produce some new talent and some exciting cricket
Martin J. Axford
Director
Anthony Axford (Timber Merchants) Ltd.