The Veterans All Stars showed that they still have it when it comes to taking on the Chairmans' XI. Bowling tightly from the start they restricted the Chariman's XI to 153, with wickets falling all too easily under the pressure of setting a good total. Max Jones, Ollie Campbell and James Westley all got starts, and Johnny James looked well set, until falling to the wily Dave Smith, who ended up with 5 wickets. Craig Anderson, Mike Thommo and Ali Spooner looked like they had been bowling all summer and Mike Atkins behind the stumps showed excellent hands. A creditable performance in the field produced only one pulled hamstring and a tactical fielding substitution allowed young Bobby to pull of the catch of the match while Benny ("I could have done that") Mitchell looked on in admiration.

The Veterans innings opened with Ali Spooner (86) and Dave Wotherspoon (30ish) who proceeded to strike the ball effortlessly to all parts, forcing a change of tactics from the Chairman. Slow bowling from Ollie Campbell and Jack Kilgannon slowed the run rate but failed to break the partnership, until Jack changing to seam-up bowled Wotherspoon with an absolute beauty. Obviously wearing a borrowed U11 jumper to restrict circulation is a tactic the Ones should consider more often. Benny Mitchell spent a few overs looking for the ball and a couple more wickets fell bringing Dave Smith to the wicket needing another 70 to win. Agressive strokes and easy running kept the Vets up with the chase, and only the tempting loopers of Peps casued a brief wobble as he collected two filthy wickets. Max Jones bowled straight and a good length and was able to enjoy an over supported by six slips before the Vets got over the line as the gloom matched the colour of the burgers grilling temptingly on the decking.

Congratulations to the Vets and huge thanks to Benny Mitchell for rounding them up and making sure this inaugral fixture will now be a permanent fixture in the season. Thanks to all the Vets who took part - we look forward to seeing you around the clubhouse more often now - and to the Chairmans' XI who selflessly destroyed their season's averages in a good cause.

More pictures in the photo galleries section of the website (link on the left)