Cricket, lovely cricket!

Following a frankly miserable Saturday, both on and off the pitch, Cricket Day organisor John Ford greeted Sunday's dawn with some trepidation - would the event fall foul of the varagies of the English summer for the second successive year? Fortunately, the sun did have his hat on and John can now bask in the glory of a truly superb event at the Victoria Sports & Social Club, Holmes Chapel.

Following nine keenly contested matches, Sandbach Travelling Alex Captain, Wayne Powell proudly received the trophy from John and ASi Chairman Dave Tomlinson.

The Sandbach team, Wayne, Chris Thornhill, Steve Porter, Colin Hemmings, Andy Male and Paul Frost, also prevailed in the Single Wicket Competition, taking home the beer as well as the trophy - which was kindly donated by Paul Frost. Paul was also top scorer on the day, hitting a total of 66 runs, including a 30 not out in one innings.

The real heroes, well heroines, were Glenys, Kate and Michele, who wo-manned the barbecue, providing much need sustenance for players and spectators alike. Their efforts contributed to a tremendous total raised for our adopted charity, The Cheshire Academy of Integrated Sports & Art*. Thank you ladies. We'd also like to thank everyone who donated prizes to a highly successful raffle.

Our next event is an "Alex" and footballed themed quiz night in the Alexandra Suite on Thursday 9th October.

*Based on Macon Way, the Cheshire Academy was founded in March 1993 with the purpose of providing sporting opportunities for individuals with physical, sensory or learning disabilities where possible in an integrated environment. The Academy firmly believes in the principle of 'sport for all' and encourages participation at all levels. They cater for individuals with profound disabilities within their sports programme as well as providing the coaching and the opportunities for children with disabilities to reach World Championship standards in a range of sports.