Norton Lindsey & Wolverton Cricket Club toast promotion at annual awards dinner
Norton Lindsey & Wolverton Cricket Club capped off a memorable year with their annual presentation and awards dinner at the Stratford Park Hotel.
Players, members, and supporters gathered to celebrate a season of triumphs and milestones.
The evening reflected not only the club’s on-field success - highlighted by the first XI’s promotion as Cotswold Hills League Division Two champions - but also the dedication and spirit that continue to drive the club forward.
Club captain Andrew Dellow congratulated the members for their contributions on and off the pitch that keep the club running, particularly the special efforts of Berni Roberts.
A number of trophies were presented, including awards to the lady volunteers that maintain the first-class standard of teas - a highlight for visiting teams.
On the field, Harry Clarke scored three Saturday League 100s, and with Jake Rushton, passed a thousand runs for the season.
Clarke scored nine 50s and four hundreds, giving him an average of 63 from 29 innings.
With the ball, there were five-wicket hauls for Dave Jarrett (two matches), Mark Reading, and Steve Dellow - whilst Andrew Dellow celebrated the best club figures of six for 30 against Woodbourne.
Ollie Watson took 47 wickets at an average of 17, closely followed by Martin Hall (36 at 17) and Simba Mudimu (35 at 10).
Captain’s balls were awarded as follows - 1st XI Ollie Watson, 2nd XI Julian Watson, Sunday XI Nick Frost.
The president praised the efforts of the 1st XI in achieving promotion with the loss of only one match, and wished them similar success for 2026 in Division One.
The 2nd XI were relegated to Division Four, but with a solid core of experience, hope to bounce back strongly as talented youngsters from the club’s thriving junior section become available.
The guests were also reminded that a number of club members have represented the county in Seniors games during 2025 - Dave McInnes was joined in the Warwickshire 50+ section by Stuart and Gavin Shephard, Steve Bliwert, and Dave Jarrett, with Steve Dellow appearing regularly for the 60+ team.
Norton Lindsey & Wolverton now look forward to preparations for the challenges of the next season, with indoor nets training in the new year and the ladies section joining the Winter Softball League.