End of Season Dinner – November 2011

GARGOYLES GO UP IN THE WORLD TO DRINK (AND EAT) TO MOST SUCCESSFUL SEASON EVER

The resplendent George Coach House was the fittingly prestigious venue for the 2011 Alstonefield Cricket Club annual awards dinner. Members and guests were treated to a sumptuous four course meal, exquisitely presented by Emily and her team. The post prandial entertainment was provided by Neil Shotton’s brutal video documentary on the reality of village cricket and the human frailties it exposes.

 Against the backdrop of the most successful season in the club’s history, with seven wins, one draw and five defeats against the strongest opposition yet faced , the 2011 awards recognised outstanding contributions both on and off the field.

 John Salt, who captained the team throughout the season, showing maturity beyond his years, was the 2011 Players Player of the Year as well as the Leading Batsman. Phil Bagshaw, consistently the most potent strike weapon,  was the 2011 Leading Bowler. Sunil Angris rediscovered his magic and won the Most Improved Player of the Year award, whilst Simon Smith, who had reached career best scores early in the season, was the recipient of the Duck Award, achieving a record 44% duck ratio. For his age and gravity defying catch at Hardwick Hall, Rob Handscombe won the Champagne Moment bottle and for his tirelessly unselfish commitment to getting things done, not to mention his arm-wrestling prowess, Alan Hayes was this year’s recipient of the Club Man of the Year award.  

 A splendid evening to put 2011 into perspective, to thank the club’s hardy supporters and to fan the flames of optimism for an even more successful 2012.