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The History of
Winchmore Hill Cricket Club
Written by Tony and Jennifer Bath 1980
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Section
Two - Post War to Centenary
Rejuvenation and Consolidation - 1945 to 1979
With the advent of the first peace-time Season, 1946 found the Club
poised and anxious to to return to normality as soon as possible.
The difficulties of those who had noble kept things going during
the War years were amply appreciated. Membership had been a cause
for concern but was on the increase and the return of many members
was welcomed. The total income for the Club of just over £1000
showed a profit against expenditure. However, it was clear that
greatly increased costs were going to have to be met.
The first essential to the success of the Club was recognised as
the improvement and maintenance of the playing surfaces. The
Pavilion interior and exterior required restoration and repairs
were needed to the roof. This all entailed more labour at a higher
rate of wages, and materials, though in short supply and
available, at steadily increasing prices. With this background it
is pleasing to record that the efforts of the groundstaff during
successive Seasons achieved excellent results, especially when it
is remembered that in 1947 the weather was as good as any within
the memory of the oldest members of the Club and 75 wickets were
used on the front table!
In 1948 a Ground Development Committee produced a five year plan
and recommendations for the development of the Club. It included
the construction of a bowling green and the formation of a Bowls
Section, the provision of additional tennis courts, a further
football pitch, resiting of the car park, the preparation of
permanent practice wickets and structural alterations to the
Pavilion. Though funds have never been available to implement the
bowling green proposal, a third football pitch was made available
for the 1948/49 Season at the lower part of Ford's Grove side of
the ground. In 1949 a new hard tennis court (No. 7) was laid, the
old car park at the rear of the pavilion was turfed over to make
it possible for the main football pitch to be brought nearer the
pavilion, and a much improved car park was constructed at the
Ford's Grove/Firs Lane corner of the ground. A second hockey pitch
was made available on the other side of the front table. Six new
shower baths were installed and the men's tennis dressing
accommodation enlarged. New practice wickets were taken into use
on the terraces between the Pavilion and the New River.
The need for a new constitution had been apparent for some time.
With the growth of the Club, the reformation of the Women's Hockey
Section, and the suggestion that the Football Club should cease to
be a Self-Managing Section, the opportunity was taken to compile a
completely new constitution, comprising Fundamental and General
Rules and Rules for each Section. At the Annual General Meeting of
the parent Club held on 29 January 1950, the new Rules were
approved and the Football Section became a Section of the parent
Club with effect from 1 October 1950, thus enjoying equal status
with the Cricket and other Sections.
During the immediate post-war years a Sub Committee consisting of
representatives of Cricket, Tennis and Football, had been
considering the form of a suitable and permanent War Memorial to
the memory of Club Members who lost their lives in the two World
Wars. On the 14 October 1951, a Service of Remembrance, held in
the Club Pavilion, was conducted by the Rev. B.E.T. Janz, M.A., a
member of the Southgate Cricket club, at which a Roll of Honour
was unveiled by Mr. J. North, Chairman of the Club from 1939-1946,
who delivered a short address. The Service was attended by a large
congregation of members, friends and relatives. The Roll of Honour
hangs in the Pavilion Lounge. Subsequently, after members had constructed
the Veranda on the Ford's Grove side of the Pavilion, it was
decided that this should be regarded as the permanent Memorial,
and a plaques was placed upon it to that effect.
In the Autumn of 1952, subject to certain conditions, a licence
for the building of a Groundsman's Cottage was received. This was
the culmination of a proposal made some five years before when it
was decided that this essential accommodation for the Head
Groundsman should be provided. (In 1951 the Club had decided to
purchase a house situated near the ground for the temporary
occupation of the Head Groundsman and his family.) The building
too place during 1953 and the cottage was occupied by the Head
Groundsman in November of that year. Some £500 was collected
towards the cost, including an anonymous gift of £200, the donor
requesting that the cottage be called 'Escott'.
During 1953 two very suitable huts were donated to the Club. One
was erected and adapted as the present Tea Hut and the other
became most acceptable as a meeting place and Club House for the
Tennis Section.
The report for 1954 indicated many general improvements to the
ground. The main items including the replacing of a large section
of the boundary fence on the north and east sides, the provision
of more seating along Firs Lane, the re-surfacing of the car park
and the redecoration of most of the interior of the pavilion. The
playing surfaces on the whole showed great improvement in spite of
adverse weather conditions.
A review of the Cub's affairs over the ten post-war years showed
that, while costs had more than trebled, a total membership of
over 600 was being maintained and much had been achieved to
further the facilities and interests of all members. It follows
therefore, that with rejuvenation behind it, the Club in all
Sections had attained its rightful high place amongst its friends
and rivals on and off the field. With a strong membership and new
faces appearing, the next ten years had much to show in furthering
and indeed improving on the efforts of the past. It goes without
saying, but still must be said, that financial considerations have
always had to be carefully watched. The Club has been fortunate in
the past to have had those with care and foresight in this
direction. So it was in these years that another generation of
Club members, appreciating the situation, realised that if they
were going to succeed they had to follow the maxim of the Bible
which said, 'God helps those that help themselves'.
The late fifties were marked by expanding the fund raising Special
Efforts of Cricket and Football matches, Pontoon, Christmas and
Grand National Draws, with Fetes, Jumble Sales and a Concert Party
to further the development of the Club and its virtual freedom
from debt.
In 1957 a sub-committee of all Sections produced a Badge in the
Club colours of silver, mauve and black. At the suggestion of Don
Wragg, it incorporated Deer which links the Club with the Arms of
its own Borough of Southgate (now incorporated in the London
Borough of Enfield), as well as the great Cedar Tree overlooking
the front of the Ground, and symbol of the New River suggestive of
'The Paulin Ground'. The Latin motto, 'Amicitia Per Ludos' which
may be translated as 'Friendship through Sport' was added by Gus
Gowers.
The outstanding event of the early months of 1958 was the fulfillment
of what was known as the Pavilion Reconstruction Scheme. To some
it is fair to say it seemed outrageous, other shook their heads,
to some it was utopian and would take years and cost the earth.
Nobody reckoned with the spirit and enterprise waiting in the
wings ready and willing to proceed. So it was that much good will,
financial and material, was accorded the Management's decision to
go ahead. In those months the Lounge and Bar of pre-war days
disappeared. In its place an attractive bar lounge, and additional
dressing room and a comfortable Committee room were constructed by
enthusiastic members. The old wooden floors of the main hall and
bar lounge were repaired and covered with Magnesite. It speaks for
itself to recall that the floor base of the hall and Player's Bar
of today is still doing good service. The Club is indeed grateful
for the voluntary effort put into this project by all concerned
which was a great team effort of the highest order led by Tom
Lynes.
On the ground itself extensive drainage work was carried out and a
large area in the south west corner was levelled. To improve the
appearance of the ground, ornamental trees, donated by members,
were planted along the Ford's Grove and Firs Lane boundary
fe3nces. The Club was not without its setbacks however. A fire in
the machine sheds in September 1959 destroyed all the machinery
but the ancient tractor and the then recently purchased gang
mowers which had fortunately not been put away. Fortune smiled
favourably, however, and a satisfactory settlement of the
insurance claim enabled the Club to replace the lost machinery and
the sheds with a range of three pre-cast concrete garages. The two
ton petrol roller acquired at the time, though showing signs of
its age, still works and the reconditioned Ferguson Tractor to
replace the ancient tractor was in evidence until quite recently.
It is worthy to note, that certain Members desirous of meeting an
outfield rolled need, harnessed three short lengths of 21 inch
diameter iron pipe filled with concrete to an iron frame, which
became a very effective tractor drawn outfield roller of
approximately 23 cwt.
1960 saw the completion of the levelling of the Spinney area for
additional playing space and a new fence along Ford's Grove to the
car park, together with the planting of some 300 quick-thorn
bushes. The outer wall of the pavilion received a much needed
repair, and in 1961 was encased with metal lathing and plaster
compound. This enable a Veranda to be erected by Members along the
Ford's Grove side of the Pavilion following their relaying of the
Pavilion's main drainage system.
The years 1962/63 will long be remembered for their adverse
weather conditions. The late frosts and a damp Summer of 1962
built up to a cold and snow laden Winter of early 1963, when from
Boxing Day till early April, Winter sports were sadly curtailed.
In fact the Club was closed altogether until Saturday 9 February.
It was however, possible to proceed with the new scorebox project
for the front table. The old wooden box was moved and renovated
for the use of those playing on the top rear table. The new brick
box was built before the snows came down. However, it was possible
to install the mechanised equipment in time for the beginning of
the 1963 Cricket Season. At the time it was one of the first of
its kind and it is pleasing to record it still gives good service.
Over the years much time and renovation work was done to the grass
courts. The chain link fencing was replaced and members were
actively engaged in dressing and repairing the hard courts. In
1965, they were re-laid and surfaced. The work was financed by
loans from the Lawn Tennis Association and National Playing Fields
Association amounting to £1000, and by
voluntary subscriptions from members. The total cost of the
undertaking was to be written off over five years.
So we come to the end of an era which had seen many improvements
to the Pavilion. The considerable efforts of the membership over
the previous ten years have been recorded, but what of the final
15? The every-present need to maintain and keep up-to-date with
sporting and social facilities continued. The cost of running the
Club, had by 1965, in 20 years, risen by five times the 1945
figure with much more to follow.
With the loss of rent from the Collegiate School, which closed in
1964, attention was turned to other lettings, extending special
efforts and social activities, not to mention the opening of the
Bar on Sundays in Summer and Winter at midday and evening. The
Brewers, at this time, being very helpful in providing new tables
and chairs for members' comfort. By 1970 the Bar takings had
exceeded the £7000 mark giving a net profit of just under £2000
for the year. Special efforts enabled a surplus of income over
expenditure to be shown, and the Club finances in a generally
healthy state with an Accumulated Fund of over £1000. During this
time both ground and pavilion received attention as required and
further drainage and extension to water supplies were carried out.
The 70s began with general expenditure under control, a pleasing
surplus, made possible by increased income from subscriptions and
the licensed bar, and a Pavilion Redevelopment Fund of over
£2000. During the Winter of 1970/71 much redecoration of the
interior facilities of the Pavilion was carried out after
considerable work of renovation on the Cricket tables, courts and
outfield. However, in August 1971 a major crisis developed when
the Club lost its Groundstaff. Again willing hands made light work
of ensuring that wickets and courts were fully prepared for
weekend play. The turn round from Summer to Winter was effected
and the band of volunteers from all Sections finally stood down at
the end of October when new groundstaff took over. A great effort
showing a fine spirit of 'all for one and one for all'.
For some time it had been felt that the Club's changing
accommodation needed enlarging and modernising. During the years
1973 and 1973 a Pavilion Redevelopment Scheme was drawn up and
financial considerations were to the fore. It was to the great
credit of all concerned that grants and loans were negotiated
successfully and the decision to go ahead could be taken.
Contractors commenced on 2 January 1974 and work was completed by
the Autumn ready for the Winter Season. The project consisted of a
complete reconstruction of the Pavilion from the Bar to the South
end. This incorporated an additional Bar Lunge, new changing
accommodation for both the ladies and men, with the male visitors changing
in second storey rooms above new showers and toilets
At the same time the heating system was much improved. The
benefits derived from the enterprise have provided a degree of
comfort and facility to which the Members of a large sports
organisation are entitled. It is, however, necessary to bear in
mind that the heavy loan debt incurred has to be repaid, and will
place a continuing burden on Club resources for some years ahead.
The final years of this period since the War have included the
drought of 1976 followed by the loss of part of the Pavilion roof
in the following winter and the severe weather conditions of the
early months of 1979. Much time and money has been spent on
drainage and the further improvements of all playing areas for
much of which the Club is indebted to its excellent Head
Groundsman. The Main Hall of the Pavilion received a new ceiling
and much improved lighting.
The Table Tennis Sections was revived and rapidly became an
accepted and established part of the Club.
Much store is placed on the entertainment of all the Cub's opponents,
whatever the game, and the social side of the Cub itself has
greatly increased over these years. The Social Committee and
various other committees concerned, are very active indeed and
provide considerable income. Annual functions such as Ladies
Night, The Summer Ball and the Turkey Supper are now highlights
and a variety of dances throughout the year are well supported.
The spirit throughout the Club in providing working parties, and supporting
the many special efforts has proved of invaluable assistance in
maintaining the standards expected of a Club of the calibre of
Winchmore Hill.
Cricket - 1945 to 1979
We have come a long way since the days of the Village Club as it
was known, the days of national heroes of the game in W.G. Grace
and J.B. Hobbs, through two World Wars to comparative modern
times. The strength of any club is usually measured by the results
of its first eleven, but as in all realms of sport, this cannot be
maintained without reserves. We must, therefore, remember that
during these later years five teams have been fielded on Saturdays
and three, sometimes four, on Sundays. Great attention has been
turned to the development of the youngsters as Colts to provide
the future players.
The reports for the Seasons 1945 to 1947 reflected a keenness to
return to normal. Many pre-war members, though much older, were
well able to hold their places and new members were being
welcomed. It is never easy to record names for there are eleven in
the team and success is determined by the combined efforts of
Batsmen and Bowlers, not to forget the fielding. However, valuable
contributions were made with the bat by T.E.J. Edwards, R.H.A.
Vickery, A.G. Cooper and with the ball by P.G. Blackwell and L.F.
Flower. E.S. Birch Captained the 1st XI in Season 1947 when, by
contrast with the previous year, the weather was as good as any
within memory, and a most successful Season was enjoyed by five
Saturday and three Sunday XIs.
During these post-war Seasons, Sunday games particularly, provided
some very interesting and upon occasions, exciting cricket. Those
against the British Empire XI and the West Indies are well worthy
of not when the Cuub put up a fine effort and the Charities for
which these games were arranged benefited in no small measure.
The highlights of 1947 were the visits of G.O. Allen's XI in June,
E.E.G. Baring's XI on Groundsman's Benefit Day, and a West Indian
XI on August Bank Holiday, when the largest crowd ever seen on the
ground saw a fine display of batting by the visitors and excellent
bowling by Dr. C.B. Clarke of Northants.
All bowling performances in this Season were overshadowed by J.
Marshall's record of 127 wickets in 1st XI games for an average of
13.07 runs.
The Club was fortunate in having as members two outstanding West
Indian cricketers in A.F. Rae and H. Fraser. The former, in
addition to making many runs in Club Cricket and for the C.C.C.,
was selected for the West Indies Test XI, and as opening bat in
1950, his centuries in the Lords and Oval Tests undoubtedly laid
the foundation of the West Indies victories in both games.
The Colts had a very successful Season and showed a substantial
balance of wins over losses. On several occasions they assisted
Club XIs and one, Howard Felton, was on occasion invited to play
for the 1st XI.
Before continuing it is perhaps as well to have a word about
fixtures. In view of the number of members of good 2nd XI
standard, it was decided in 1947 to change the nomenclature to 'A'
XI and 2nd XI respectively with the former retaining the strongest
of the original 2nd XI opponents and completing their list as far
as possible with 1st XI opposition. This resulted in a
strengthening of fixture lists for both sides. Long standing
fixtures, for example with Clubs like Edmonton, Wanstead,
Alexandra Park, Finchley, Hornsey and North Middlesex, came under
these new arrangements which worked well for all concerned. It
meant that the 'A' XI played many more matches away from home, and
it was possible to be at Westcliff on Saturday and Basingstoke on
Sunday, but with the motor car also now taking a part, no-one
minded when meeting old friends and some new ones, with much good
cricket.
A most encouraging feature of the Seasons 1947 to 1950 was the
introduction into the 1st XI of young members who had deservedly
gained promotion from the lower elevens. With the assistance of
some new members in the higher sides a general all-round
strengthening was reflected in the results of the 3rd and Extra
3rd XIs. The batting of H.J. Felton, M.W.G. Pryke and T. Williams
and the bowling of J. Fox, J. Peacock and P. Pizey justified the
confidence reposed in them and held out much promise for the
future. There was a preponderance of drawn games but as many
were won as lost and results overall were encouraging with at leas
six centuries from members each Season.
These Seasons saw Benefit Fund fixtures with the Middlesex County
XI (twice) and the Hants C.C.C. in addition to the annual match
with the West Indies. Against the County in 1948 for L.H. Gray's
Benefit Fund, the Club put up a splendid performance, eight of the
visitors were dismissed for 208, the club replying with 138. The
West Indies match (for L.N. Constatntine's Testimonial Fund) was a
different story. The beneficiary scored runs very quickly and then
bowled unchanged to take seven wickets. The match with the County
XI in 1949 for Denis Compton's Benefit Fund attracted a very large
crowd indeed. The Club was honoured to welcome the full County
side, Captained by R.W.V. Robins, which included Denis and Leslie
Compton, Jack Robertson, Bill Edrich and Jim Sims. For this game
our own Mr. W. Bedford was an Umpire, Mrs. Bedford a scorer and
their son, Ian, twelfth man for the County.
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Winchmore
Hill v Middlesex C.C.C. - 5 June 1949
Denis Compton Benefit Match
Standing: W. Bedford, H.S. Knight, P.I. Bedford, L.
Moore, A. Thompson, L.A. Lambert, S.M. Brown, J.D.
Robertson, R. Routledge, J.A. Young, H. Sharp, D.E. Tonge,
T.A.J. Bennett, D.W. Ashby, S. Hancock, E.O. Welsford, J.
North
Seated: T.E.J. Edwards, L.H. Gray, J. Marshall, W.J. Edrich,
S.J. Garbett, R.W.V. Robins (Captain), D.C.S. Compton, R.H.A.
Vickery (Captain), J.M. Sims, P.G. Blackwell, L. Compton, J.
Hurst, A.F. Rae |
The Bank Holiday
Sunday, 31 July game against West Indies, is well worth recording.
At 2.00 p.m. the ground was practically under water, but the game
started at 3.00 p.m. and at 5.15 p.m. Dr. C.B. Clarke, the West
Indies Captain, declared with the score at 342 for 5 wickets!
The innings of Everton Weekes, the first he played in London, was
delightful and the robust hitting of the evergreen Learie
Constantine was much enjoyed. When the Club batted there was
inevitably an anti-climax, but there were creditable performances
in the score of 152. L. Moore batted extremely well for 47, ably
supported by R. Vickery, and R. Morgan stayed for a good innings
of 28 including a lovely six to long-leg off Bynoe.
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Winchmore
Hill v The West Indies - 31 July 1949
Standing: (Umpire), L.F. Flower, P. Bynoe, L. Moore, H.A.
Fraser, J. North, S.J. Garbett, A.F. Rae, D.E. Tonge, E.B.
Eytle, J. Hurst, S. Hancock (Umpire)
Seated: J.K. Holt, L.A. Lambert, L.N. Constantine, P.G.
Blackwell, C.B. Clarke (Captain), R.H.A. Vickery (Captain),
J.H. Camberon, J. Marshall, E.P. Weekes, L. Statnton, K.
Ablack, T.E.J. Edwards
Front: L. Japal, R. Morgan, B. Bishop |
The Hants County XI visited Winchmore Hill for the first time in
1950 in aid of their professional's Benefit Fund. The Club's reply
of 156 for six wickets to the County's total of 216 for four
wickets including a century by McCorkell, made a very creditable
draw. A large crowd again supported the annual fixture with the
West Indies XI whose score of 216 for seven wickets, including an
entertaining innings of 67 by their Captain C.B. Clarke, proved
too much for the Club side which could only muster 67 runs.
And so we move into the fifties and 70 years on! This latter was
fittingly celebrated on Saturday 15 April 1950 at the Cafe Royal
when a dinner and dance was attended by some 250 members and
friends, presided over by the Club Chairman, Mr. H.S. Knight.
Guests included Mr. Bruce Harris, Sports Editor of the 'Evening
Standard', Mr. F.C. Hawker, Captain of Southgate C.C., Mr. C.E.H.
Topping, Captain of Edmonton C.C. and representatives of Chingford,
Alexandra Park, Brondesbury, North Middlesex, Finchley, Enfield,
Westcliff and Hornsey Cricket Clubs. Messages of good-will were
received from Miss Paulin, President of the Club, Mr. Frank Mann
and Mr. George Mann, Vice Presidents, Sir Pelham Warner, Mr. R.C.
Robertson-Glasgow, Mr. John Arlott, and Mr. R.H. McLeod, a Life
Member and former Chairman of the Club. Prominent playing members
of former days present included Mr. F.H. Bowles, Mr. F.G. Lavers
and Mr. A.G.R. Knight.
The weather seems to have taken its toll of fixtures in the early
50s. In 1951 it was cold and wet and of 219 matches arranged, 21
were cancelled and 24 abandoned wile in 1954, of 235 arranged, 45
were abandoned and many other curtailed.
From 1953 onwards, the 1st XI undoubtedly benefited from the
talent that had been evident in the lower sides and the Colts, but
not a little of the success was due to the high standard of
fielding.
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The 1st XI -
1955
Standing: S.J.F. Barry (Umpire), D. Lynes, J. Marshall,
J.A. Clarke, M.W.G.Pryke, N.A. Robinson, D.L. Newman, J.N.
Haynes
Seated: T.L. Williams, H.J. Felton, L.F. Flower (Captain),
L.A. Lambert, D.A. Metson
B. Duff (Scorer) |
During six consecutive seasons as Captain from 1953 to 1958, L.F.
Flower continued to exploit both the agility and ability of his
youthful 1st XI. Noteworthy performances included a 1,000 runs in
each of three consecutive seasons by H.J. Felton, while D.A.
Metson, L.A. Lambert and M.W.G. Pryke were all amongst the runs.
For several Seasons D.L. Newman, injected some of his energy and
insatiable zest for the game into the team and had many attractive
innings to his credit. He was captain of the 1st XI at his
untimely death in 1959. In a County 2nd XI match on the Paulin
Ground in 1956 he, as Captain, and H.J. Felton shared the
distinction of being the only two amateurs in the Middlesex side
which beat Essex. The bowling of J. Marshall and S. Garbett showed
much consistency, to be followed for several seasons by J.D. Fox
taking over 100 wickets or thereabouts. J.C. Tait in 1956, his
first full season as a First XI player, took 59 wickets and was
also useful with the bat. P. Pizey, however, became the Club's
foremost all-rounder scoring 825 runs and taking over 100 wickets
in the 1959 season.
Many scoring games and notable performances were played against
local rivals Southgate, Enfield, Alexandra Park, Northampton
Polytechnic, Finchley and Edmonton and further afield against
Brondesbury, Wanstead, Westcliff, Hertford, Ealing, Guildford and
St. Albans.
The all round high standard of performances which is expected of
the lower sides was much in evidence. Youngsters made good use of
opportunities when included in higher elevens, with impressive
fielding and batting performances. Much credit is due to the
Captain of each XI for their inspiration and encouragement. These
included T.A.J. Bennett, A.W. Lambert, A. Bacon, J. Potter, V.F.
Carpenter and P. Friend. They were well supported by T. Williams,
P. Reynolds, R. Morgan, W. Kebbell, W. Milne, R. Gowers and A.
Glede with excellent wicket-keeping by T. Watson and A. Osen.
These are of course only some of the many members of these sides.
Post-war Club Tours were started in 1948 in Sussex moving
westwards to Hants and Dorset in 1950 until 1954 which was the
last until 1962.
The first Cricket Dinner for many years was held at Selbourne Hall
in 1951 and except for 1953 continued throughout these years at
the 'Cambridge', 'Nightingale' and the 'Green Dragon'.
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The Menu -
Cricket Dinner 1951
Soup - Roast Chicken, Baked and Creamed Potatoes,
Vegetables in Season - Trifle and Ice Cream - Coffee.
Toasts
H.M. The King - Proposed by The Chairman
The Club - Proposed by F.C. Hawker, Esq., Southgate C.C.
Response by The Chairman
Our Guests - Proposed by D.M. Robertson, Esq., Winchmore
Hill C.C.
Response by H.P. Crabtree, Esq., Essex C.C.C. &
Westcliff C.C.
C. Davies, Esq., Alexandra Park C.C.
Artistes
D.G. Barsham, Esq., Winchmore Hill C.C.
Reg Williams, Comedian
Toast-Master S.H. Kynaston, Esq., Winchmore Hill C.C. |
Special events in the fixture lists
included matches with the Middlesex County XI for Jack Robertson's
benefit in 1951 which included a hurricane 60 in 22 minutes by
Denis Compton. This match was followed by one with the West Indies
Wanderers led by Alan Rae, making his last appearance at Winchmore
Hill, in August of that year. Victories were recorded against an
M.C.C. XI in 1953 and 1957. A full Middlesex XI visited the Ground
on Sunday 16 June 1957 the entire proceeds being donated by the
County to the Club. A large crowd enjoyed cricket played in true
festival style. Again the following season Middlesex County XI
visited the ground as did a Professional Footballers XI, both
games proving enjoyable cricket for many local enthusiasts.
Lastly in 1959, probably never before has the Club met such
formidable opponents in the same Season: M.C.C., Middlesex County
XI, which included F.S. Trueman of Yorkshire and England, for Jack
Robertson's Testimonial match, Middlesex Club and Ground, Cross
Arrows, Beddington, Ealing and the Professional Footballers.
This record of the fifties would be incomplete without the
inclusion of a word on the continued value of the Colts to the
Club which has been amply demonstrated by the number of their
appearances in the various XIs. Much credit is due to the devoted
service of Mr. W. Bedford ably assisted by Mr. R. Cooper, father
of one of the Colts, until 1957 when T. Webb and J. Potter
succeeded them, with the same spirit and enthusiasm.
An encouraging feature of the Sixties was the consistent success
of the younger members of the fifties who were now to take over.
H.J. Felton in his first year as Captain of the 1st XI in 1960
scored over 1000 runs followed by his brother B.J. with 770 runs
and J. Tait who scored 700 runs. J. Marshall and P. Pizey were
still taking wickets and shared the bowling with J. Tait and J.
Taylor. B. Davies, Captain of the Colts in 1960, entered the 1st
XI bowling ranks in 1962. The following year with the retirement
of J. Marshall, for many years the Club's leading slow bowler, J.
Adamson, who showed great promise with his leg spin, took over and
joined P. Pizey in the spin attack. B. Davies, J. Metcalfe and B.
Avent providing the main speed effort.
The middle of the term was somewhat concerning with a falling off
of membership and a reduction of a side for Saturdays to four, but
Sundays was maintained at five. However, it is pleasing to record
that all fixtures were honoured during the later years with not a
little help from the Colts. The 1st XI, now Captained by D.
Metson, had a preponderance of drawn games but also managed to win
more than they lost. Much of the batting fell on the shoulders of
H. Felton, J. Tait and a new member, L. Rogers, and it is recorded
that in the 1968 Season the side often had to rely on J. Adamson
to pull them out of a difficult situation. The main bowling was
again in the capable hands of P. Pizey, B. Avent and J. Metcalfe
while B. Davies also had some excellent success with the bat in
1969 scoring nearly 800 runs, including a maiden century, and
taking 54 wickets. This Season also saw the emergence of D. Parish
as a very capable wicket keeper.
To record the many enjoyable games over this decade would fill
another book. The two games against Southgate in 1960 resulted in
draws but in each case only a few runs separated the totals. Two
games were played against Ashford (Middlesex) which was the only
new fixture and proved to be a good addition to the list. In 1962,
J. Metcalfe having the best individual performance of the Season
with eight for 28 against the strong Chingford XI. In 1963 J.
Adamson with his leg spin had a best performance of six for ten
against West Herts. M. Fuzedale continued to make progress behind
the stumps and his six off the last ball (a terrific hook over the
scorebox) against Hertford, gave the Club its most exciting
victory for many a year. Matches played in 1965 at Ashford and
Beaconsfield resulted in exciting finishes but unfortunately in
each case the Club was unable to claim victory. Against Wanstead,
B. Avent took six for 32. In 1966 R. Ward scored the Club's only
century in excellent fashion against Luton taking just over two
hours. In 1968 Shepherds Bush were demolished twice by seam
bowlers J. Metcalfe and B. Davies who, later in the Season
dismissed Beaconsfield for 26.
For the lower XIs, there were many outstanding individual
performances under the various Captaincies of J. Potter, C.
Garbett, G. Wilson, N. Long, G. Taylor, I. Watson and D. and C.
Lynes. Highlights in 1962 included a brilliant 84 in under the
hours for the 'A' XI by R. Ward, the previous year's Colts Captain
to provide a grandstand finish against Alexandra Park. R. Slatter
for the 'A' XI scored over 1000 runs including an innings of 134.
There was an unbroken partnership for the 'B' XI of 200 by R. Key
and F. Scharenguivel and a stand of 173 for the 3rd XI - A. Gibbs
116 and R. Bennett 75 not out. In 1963, V.F. Carpenter scored 109
not out against Shepherds Bush and J. Taylor an aggressive 98
against Alexandra Park. Centuries were scored for the 2nd XI by C.
Garbett and W. Kebbell and the Whitsun became known as 'Kebbell's
Weekend' - 40 on the Saturday, 83 on Sunday and 115 on the Monday!
In 1965, I. Henderson narrowly missed his coveted 'ton' of wickets
with ten for the 1st XI, 83 for the 'A' XI and two for the 2nd XI.
J. Noah for the 'A' XI against a strong Incidentals XI bowled
unchanged for 13 overs and took all ten wickets for 13 runs. In
1967, the 2nd XI were asked to score 266 runs in 195 minutes
against Alexandra Park away, and won on the last but one ball of
the match. A. Bacon scored his maiden century and carried his bat.
The Cricket Tour in June to Devon was revived in 1962 and
continued with much success. Special games included matches
against The President's XI and M.C.C. on alternate years.
The Cots Section continued with strength and vigour, benefiting
greatly from net practice and coaching, variously under the eyes
of T.J. Webb, J. Potter and I. Henderson.
Modern Times 1970-1980. A much hackneyed term but arguable
appropriate to the run in to the final decade of the Centenary
story. It is a fact that the Club has followed Lord Harris's
thoughts and fostered the game of cricket for many who have found
time to play it.
The principles of batsman against bowler and fielders will surely
remain for ever wherever the game is played, but inevitable it
seems that changes in outlook and perspective must be accepted.
Competition there always has been, and much rivalry generated and satisfied
one way or the other on the field, and then savoured over a beer
in the cool of the evening. Club strengths generally for various
reasons, can vary from Season to Season, even from week to week
sometimes, and therefore the idea of League Cricket among weekend
cricketers took some time to gain support. However, the unofficial
Middlesex League commenced in 1970 and the Club finished just
above half way in the talbe. The official League programme began
in Season 1972 with the 1st XI and 'A' XI taking part and 1977
marked the entry of the Club's 2nd XI into League Cricket.
Captaincy of the 1st XI during these ten years was held by J. Tait
1970-72, D. Mackrill 1973, L. Rogers 1974-76, J. Cook 1977 and J.
Adamson 1978-80.
The Seasons 1970 and 1971 provided some memorable high scoring
matches with Westcliff, Southgate and Alexandra Park. L. Rogers
had outstanding Seasons and was well supported by D. Seeman, D.
Mackrill and J. Tait while J. Adamson, R. Ward, Dilip Modi, the
evergreen P. Pizey and that consistent all-rounder B. Davies
provided a very creditable attack. The Club reached the Final of
the Wills Cup in 1971, but were unsuccessful against an even
stronger Ealing side.
Following on these two successful Seasons high hopes for 1972 were
disappointed by the unavailability of L. Rogers until August, and
the departure from the Club of R. Ward and Dilip Modi. The Club
was knocked out of the Wills Cup at the first hurdle by Wembley
and finished fourteenth in the League.
Seasons 1973 to 75 brought encouraging results, some memorable
matches but only moderate overall success. The semi-final of the
Wills Cup was reached in 1973 and the final in 1974, when after a
fine win over Enfield in the semi's, the Club was outplayed by an
excellent South Hampstead side which deservedly achieved the Cup
and League double. The following year the 1st XI was defeated in
the first round. In the league placings, the Club were ninth,
fifth and thirteenth respectively out of 16 Clubs, well below
Finchley and Southgate, two of a number of fine sides in what is
certainly now a very strong Competition.
Much highly enjoyable cricket was also played outside the
competition and a win off the last ball of the 1974 match against
a strong President's XI generated great excitement.
Personal performances of merit with the bat came from J. Tait, L.
Rogers and all-rounder B. Davies. It was pleasing to see the
emergence of young players in H. Prosser, G. Couzens, T.
Braithwaite and C. Martin with both bat and ball. Wicket keeping
was shared amongst the safe hands of T. Watson, D. Littlewood and
D. Parish.
Recent Seasons from 1976 onwards saw only a modest record of
achievement, often adequately described as a promising beginning,
a barren middle and a belated recovery. This was reflected in the
middle of the table or just below position in the Middlesex League
and no success in the Wills Cup competition.
On the other side of the picture availabilities of players for
both Saturdays and Sundays seems to be a thing of the past. Good
performances outside the competition games were indicative of the
difference in strength between league and non-league sides caused
by team changes. In spite of a modes Club playing record, however,
several players were accorded representative honours. B. Davies,
L. Rogers, J. Tait and A. Lee were selected for the Middlesex
League Side while L. Rogers, G. Couzens, D. Parish and J. Cook
also played for the A.M.C.C.
During this post-war commentary care has been taken to refer to
strength in depth being the hallmark of success by recording the
valuable part played by the lower XIs and their Captains. Apart
perhaps from the 'A' XI, it is a fact that the skipper has to
combine being a Captain of a team playing the game, with those of
a general factotum not always fully appreciated. This is where the
real core of the good Club Member who also enjoys his cricket is
to be found.
Many of those mentioned in the past are still giving sterling
service to the Club in other ways. To these must be added those
who Captained the lower XIs in the seventies - B.J. Felton, D.
Metson, J. Berner, C. Wilkins, D. Mackrill, A. Boxer, H. Jackson,
and not forgetting the old stalwarts V. Carpenter, I. Watson and
R. Morgan. All have had much co-operation and support from those
who have played in their sides whether it be from the oldest or
the newest cricket member.
The introduction of League Cricket has permeated through to the
Colts, who in 1973 played in league cricket (under 16 years) on a
limited over basis and a second side (under 14 years) entered in
1974. Both sides have done extremely well winning their leagues
and gaining representative honours with Middlesex County Colts.
Several each Season play for the Senior Club XIs and their
performance and behaviour is a credit to themselves and to Messrs.
Avent, Nixon, Ratcliffe and other senior members who helped in the
organisation of this very important part of the Cricket Club.
In this last decade the Club Tour to Devon has maintained its
attraction. Socially, always a resounding success, the results of
the cricket matches, sometime disappointing and, whatever the
weather, always enjoyable with a fair proportion of success. The
organisers continue to excel themselves and long may this state of
affairs continue.
Veterans XI - At the Parent Club A.G.M. held on 27 January
1957 it was announced 'that efforts are being made to inaugurate a
Veterans XI'. The Cricket Committee had put the idea to Don Wragg
to encourage older members of the Club who had reached or were
nearing the end of their normal cricket life to continue to play
the game of cricket, retain the good fellowship so far enjoyed and
meet old friends and rivals. It was thought that about six or
eight games could be played each Season. The task was readily
accepted and though only two or three games could be arranged in
1957, the side regularly appeared in the Club fixture lists from
the Season 1958. In fact, in 1978 the Veterans celebrated 21
continuously successful Seasons and is still going strong with Gus
Gowers and John Potter at the helm.
Winchmore Hill Cricket Club Golfing Society - 1951 to 1979
During the spring and summer evenings of 1950, a number of members
keen on the game were seen knocking a golf ball round the ground,
and the idea of laying out a nine hole pitch and putt Course was
considered. However, there were difficulties - not the least being
that the traditional cover drive with a seven iron could spell
danger for motorists and nearby residents - so it was decided to
invite those interested to assemble at Whitewebbs Golf Course in
North Enfield for regular evening games.
The following year, 1951, the Society officially came into being.
Its objects to provide adequate but perhaps more relaxed exercise
for those not necessarily wishing to continue playing cricket, and
to retain the good fellowship so far enjoyed without losing their
affinity to, and first love, the Cricket Club. Their constitution
as a self-managing body is somewhat different in that they have a
President instead of a Chairman. It is pleasing to record that the
first to hold this office was Jimmy North, as he was affectionately
known to all, a great servant of the Cricket Club particularly in
war-time days.
Early in 1957, an even more local venue became available, and the
long and friendly association with the Bush Hill Park Golf Club
began, to the mutual benefit of both.
Much enjoyment is to be found among the 50 or so members whose
Season consists of Friday evening competitions and an afternoon
meeting in the Autumn; an all day Summer meeting with guests at
the Golf Club and not forgetting the annual match with the Bush
Hill Club, winding up with the very popular Dinner Dance at
Pearsons late in the year. Of the various trophies generously
donated, the most coveted is the 'Jimmy North' Cup.
Over the years, the Society has been of much financial benefit to
the parent Club.
Tennis - 1945 to 1979
The post war years saw an increased membership with a flourishing
junior section, for who matches and a Club Championship were
introduced. Facilities were extended with the laying of a fourth
hard court in 1948/49 and the erection of a Tennis Pavilion in
1954 which gave the Section a common rendezvous away from the main
pavilion.
The results of the senior match programme against other Clubs
indicated that the Section could hold its own against the best
provided by local opposition. Men's and Ladies teams were entered
for the Middlesex Cup Division 3 and occasionally Division 2. The
Men reached the final in 1949 losing to Highgate, again in 1953
when they were beaten by the Polish Club, Pelonia, whose team
included three ex Davis Cup players, and also in 1960 when the
lost to Kenton.
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Men's
1st Team - 1953
E. Harrison, G. Edmonds, G.A. Roberts, F. Croker, A.
Flack,
E.C. Metcalf
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The Ladies were losing finalists to
Arrow L.T.C. in 1951 and again to Ashford in 1957. They lost an
exciting semi-final to Heathfield Park in 1959 but did not advance
beyond the first few rounds for many Seasons until they won the
Cup (Division 4) in 1976, beating Hornsey in the Final. The only
success of the Club's Mixed Doubles team in the Winter competition
of the Middlesex Cup was in 1968 when they beat Highgate in the
Final. They reached the semi-final in 1962 and 1971 losing to
Bonhomie and South Hampstead L.T.C.'s respectively.
The Club Championships, held on Sundays from 1956 instead of
Saturdays, have always been well supported, keenly contested, and
afforded opportunities for the reigning Champions to confirm, or
not, their supremacy. Many interesting matches ensued particularly
in the Men's competition where the Champions have changed
frequently.
1967 saw the Club's entry of two Men's teams and one Ladies into
the Middlesex League, competing mainly against other Tennis Clubs
previously met on a friendly match basis. The Men's team reached
Division 1 by 1969 but their fortunes fluctuated in succeeding
years, as did those of the second team. A third team was entered
in 1978 gaining promotion in the two Seasons of membership of the
league. The Ladies team had little success until 1974 when for
three Seasons they were unbeaten in Divisions 3, 2 and 1but were
relegated at the end of the 1979 Season. A Ladies second team
entered the league in 1976 gaining promotion two Seasons running.
Towards the end of the 50s junior membership increased to the
extent that it was decided to engage a professional coach. In
consequence the standard of play greatly improved. In 1967 a Boy's
team was entered in the U21 Cup which the won handsomely, but
unfortunately lost to Vicars Moor L.T.C. in the Final the
following year. Matches were again arranged for Boys and Girls
with much success. Their Championships continued until recent
years producing many an intriguing final.
Over the years, though achievement has been limited in the wider
field, a great deal of pleasure has been afforded to an ever
changing membership. The Tennis Section takes an active part in
parent Club affairs and organises a highly successful annual
Barbecue. The Section has been fortunate in having a succession of
loyal and hard working officers and committees to whom much is
owed by many and whose efforts in the past are the example for the
future. It is to be hoped with the introduction of floodlights and
the all-round recent improvement of the Courts, membership will
increase and interest and enjoyment sustained.
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Ladies 1st
Team
Champions Middlesex League Division 3 - 1974, Division 2 -
1975, Runners-up Division 1 - 1976
S. Phillips, J. Kirkland, B. Hulbert, B. Reid, A.
Wardlaw,
J. Hall (Captain), M. McCracken |
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Men's 1st
Team 1978
A. Henderson, C. Wilson, J. Davis, J. Warner, R. Smith,
K. Ferguson |
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Football - 1945 to 1979
A factor which retained the atmosphere of war-time football, was
the protracted period of Demobilisation after the world
technically became at peace in August 1945. Several old members
returned, but by and large many members were still absent, and the
great re-union anticipated seemed still far off. An effort was
made to return to peace time conditions in re-starting the
Southern Amateur League for the 1945-46 Season. Unfortunately only
14 Clubs were able to take part, making the Competition only a
shadow of its former self, with two Sections of eight and six
Clubs respectively. The football was not quite up to standard but
good enough to give the Hill a fair showing with three full sides
every week.
There never was such a Season as 1946/47. Despite deplorable
weather with continuous rain in the months of November and
December to be followed by snow and ice, the Season was, in
achievement, the Club's best on record. Before the activities of
the weather began, the 1st XI pitch was moved from the original
top pitch to the position it roughly occupies today across the
centre of the ground. The top pitch to remain in use for the lower
sides. The Hill's 1st and Reserve sides resumed their pre-war
membership of Division II of their respective Leagues in the SAL
while the 3rd XI competed in Division III of the Nemean League. A
4th XI played a programme of friendly matches. Having set the
scene therefore, it is pleasing to record that both 1st and 2nd
XIs won their leagues, securing promotion to Division I SAL Senior
and Reserve Sections for the first time in 27 years membership of
the SAL. The 3rd XI finished fourth out of 10 clubs in their
Division of the Nemean League and the 4th XI achieved moderate
success in a programme of 17 friendly matches. Out of a possible
36 points the 1st XI obtained 32 and the 2nd XI 26 out of 32. The
overall results for the Season speak for themselves as follows:
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Goals |
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P |
W |
D |
L |
F |
A |
| 1st XI |
24 |
18 |
2 |
4 |
102 |
37 |
| 2nd XI |
23 |
18 |
2 |
3 |
100 |
30 |
| 3rd XI |
23 |
11 |
2 |
10 |
80 |
57 |
| 4th XI |
17 |
7 |
3 |
7 |
50 |
51 |
The last Season has been dealt with in
detail because it started a very considerable run of success for
the Club from Season 1947/48 up to and including 1955/56.
At the end of the 1947/48 Season, the 1st X created a record by
winning the League Championship at the first attempt. They again
won in 1948/49, were second in 1949/50 and then won again in
1950/51 for the third time in four Seasons, which was followed by
further title wins in 1951/52, 1954/55 and 1955/56. Six times
Champions in nine Seasons. With this success came representative
recognition by selection of J. Pearl, A. Bailey, L. Lambert and C.
Burrett for the A.F.A. with many more for the SAL.
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Champions SAL
Division One - 1950/51
Standing: J. Perry (Asst. Trainer) J. Ferraby (Hon.
Sec.), C.A. Burrett, P.I. Bedford, R.M. Carter, L.A.
Lambert, J. Peters, W.K. Brooks, A.R. Bailey, A.H. King,
Serg. Ambridge (Trainer)
Seated: V.A. Haskell, H. Felton, J. Pearl, A.W. Lambert
(Captain), E.H. Wiseman, N. Haslam |
During these years, the Captaincy passed from Gus Gowers 1946/48,
to Alec Lambert 1948/52, Charles Burrett 1952/54, Ian Bedford 1954
and because of illness to Ian, first to Charles Burrett and then
to Howard Felton in 1955/56.
Four XIs were fielded in 1947/48, the first three in the SAL and
the 4th in the Nemean League. The acquisition of a third pitch on
the lower part of the Ground in 1948/49 made possible the running
of a 5th XI and the entry of the 3rd and 4th XIs in the newly
formed Minor Section of the SAL. An extra 5th XI became the
regular 6th XI in 1950/51, when the 5th XI entered the SAL. There
were times in 1952/53 and 1953/54 when seven sides took the field,
such was the strength of the membership. The depth of playing
strength of the Cub at the end of the 1955/56 Season is reflected
in the final League positions, for, in addition to 1st XI
achievements, the Reserves were champions of their League in
1953/54 and were runners-up in 1955/56 when the 3rd and 5th XIs
headed their Leagues.
AFA Senior Cup results saw the Club reach the semi-finals in
1948/49, 1950/51 and 1954/55 and the Final in three consecutive
Seasons. In 1951/52 losing to Norsemen at Leyton Orient, in
1952/53 against HMS Daedalus with whom they drew 0-0 after extra
time, at the ground of the now Football League Club, Wimbledon,
and shared the cup, and in 1953/54 losing to Southgate Olympic at
Barnet. After all these years of endeavour it was not to be until
the end of the 1959/60 Season that this Cup was eventually won
outright (against Cuaco 1-0) for what has turned out to be the
only time.
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Winners AFA
Senior Cup - 1959/60
Inset: G. Wilson, H. Felton
Standing: Serg. Ambridge, M. Fusedale, J. Hardman, J.C.
Tait, K. Gibbs, D. Constable,
W.K. Brooks, C.A. Burrett
Seated: P.I. Bedford, J. Taylor, D. Carter, A.R. Bailey
(Captain), D.B. Callwood, L. Rogers |
The period from 1956/57 to 1969/70 can
only be described as an anti-climax in comparison with the heady
ten post-war seasons. Apart from winning the AFA Senior Cup in
1959/60 the 1st and Reserve sides were relegated, and it was not
until the late 60s that the Club fully recovered. In 1960/61, the
Reserves, having been relegated at the end of the previous season,
regained their Division 1 status by being promoted at the first
attempt. However, the 1st XI were relegated in 1963/64 but three
years later saw them back in the 1st Division for the 1967/68
Season which was Championship year indeed. They promptly won the
Championship and were joined in success by the 3rd, 4th and 5th
XIs who also won their Leagues, and for good measure by the 6th XI
who were runners up in theirs. The reserves were again relegated
at the end of 1966/67, but were back to the 1st Division in
1968/69.
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Champions SAL
Division One - 1967/68
Standing: M. Milton, P. Knight, P. Coxall, M. Harris, A.
Smith, J.C. Tait, Brian Davies,
R. Pearman
Seated: A. Grainger, D. Crotty (Captain) Barry Davies, R.
McWilliam
Inset: R. Ward, J. Noah |
The Golden Jubilee Season 1969/70 was
one of which all could be justly proud. The 1st XI after an
excellent start, dropped points in their later games and
eventually finished in third place. The Reserves were champions
for the second successive Season. The 3rd XI were runners-up, the
4th XI finished in third position in their League and were
narrowly defeated in the semi-final of the Novets Cup, while the
5th XI were also third. The 6th XI having lost only one League
game, were another side to be League Champions. The 7th XI upheld
the Cub's record of high League positions, finishing third. A
Dinner was held at The Press Club when founder members, Messrs.
F.G. Lavers, the Club's first Captain, W. Heald, H.H. Gower and J.
Follett, the first Treasurer, honoured the Football Club with
their presence. Some representative honours were gained during
these years by the selection of G. Wilson, D. Carter, M. Fuzedale
and P. Knight for the AFA who were also joined by several others
in gaining places in the SAL League side.
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| The
Menu from the Golden Jubilee Dinner - 30 March 1970 |
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Features worthy of note included a Junior
Section for U16 and U18 for five years from 1958 to 1963. Training
Courses at Winchmore Hill School and the snows of early 1963 when
the League programmed had to be cancelled. The report of 1963/64
recorded that 'the 5th XI under T. Watson were Champions of the
League having been alternately cajoled and goaded to victory.
Artistry, pattern weaving and guile had no place in this rugged
often ruthless but highly successful campaign'. The 6th and 7th
XIs entered the SAL in 1960/61 and 1967/68 respectively. Finally
1965/66 saw the commencement of Sunday League football and 1968/69
the start of the annual five-a-side competition.
The 70s saw seven League sides fielded each week increased to
eight from 1976/77. All began satisfactorily with creditable
League positions, particularly in the case of the lower sides. The
AFA Minor Cup was won for the first time in 1970/71. However, the
1st XI had a mixed bag of results for the first five Seasons of
the decade and respectability in a safe position or midway in the
League was disappointing. The Reserves lost their way and had a
Season in the lower Division but came back to win the League and
narrowly miss a League and Cup double in 1974/75. Likewise the
other sides had indifferent Seasons which did not reflect a
standard expected of a Club with such numerical support.
The second half of the decade saw the 1st XI maintain a mid-table
or above position. The Reserves had another spell in the lower
Division but soon returned. The lower elevens fortunes again
fluctuated and a variety of adjectives were used to describe their
results.
Much good fellowship and Club loyalty is abundant but success in a
thriving Club is elusive. Efforts to improve the playing strength
are being made and to encourage young players to join and remain
with the Club, a Youth policy was implemented from Season 1977/78
with the introduction of two youth sides.
The Annual Club Supper at the end of each Season, sometimes
referred to as the zenith or nadir, (whichever way you choose to
look at it) has been held in the Pavilion since the War except for
half a down years in the early 60s when the venues were Selborne
Hall and the 'Green Dragon'. Always well attended by past and
present members and a goodly sprinkling of guests from other
Clubs, and those who can remember them have happy memories of
these occasions.
The Easter Tours, recommenced at the end of 1951/52 with a return
to Wimborne for some years, but since then the Club has made
itself known in the Midlands, East Anglia and the South Coast.
Emphasis has always been to enjoy good company, much refreshment
with not a little successful football.
Women's Hockey - 1947 to 1979
The recommencement of Hockey at Ford's Grove after the War did not
materialise until 1947. Miss Margaret Ellis, who in 1946 had been
appointed a teacher at Enfield County School, and was living near
the Club in Halstead Road, decided that Winchmore Hill must be
revived. The reasons for this decision were brought about by the
fact that having been invited to attend Middlesex County Trials in
October 1946 (she had been a Leicestershire County player before
the War) she was selected into the 1st XI, told to join a Club and
joined Highgate. However, after discussions with members of the
parent Club Management Committee, she obtained assurance of their
support for a Hockey Section of the Cricket Club, but not as a
self-managing Section as it had been before the War.
On the 24 September 1947 (after making a fixture list for two XIs
in the absence of any club members), the first meeting of the
Hockey Section was held when Miss Ellis was elected Captain and
Secretary. Initial practices in early October preceded the first
match on 18 October v Northampton Ply (away) which was won 4-2.
Uniform was often a problem in those early days, since clothing
was 'on coupons' but later an allocation of clothing coupons was
obtained for the white blouse, purple divided skirt and black
socks with purple turnovers.
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WHWHC -
Season 1947/48
Standing: M. Ward, P. Howes, J. Bedford, B. Endersby, K.
Shacklock, (unknown), W. Bedford (Umpire)
Sitting: V. Robins, M. Beveridge, M. Ellis (Captain &
Secretary), F. Wharburton, E. Hurst
Front: G. Murfitt, P. Johnson |
The second Season, 1948/49 started with,
if anything, more enthusiasm than the first and a number of new
members were welcomed. Miss Ellis was able to relinquish some of
her offices with the increased membership and the Secretaryship
was split into three - a General Secretary, Team Secretary and
Fixture Secretary. Miss Ellis was Chairman and Miss M. Ward 1st XI
Captain.
In 1949/50 membership stood at 30 and representative honours were
attained by two more members. The Club was represented at the
Middlesex County Club's Tournament at Chiswick, finishing third in
their section. For the first time a Club side took part in the
Southend Easter Hockey Festival.
The Fifties
- In the middle of the 1950/51 Season, the Section regretfully
said goodbye to Miss Ellis on her appointment to the headship of
Saltburn High School. She had done much for the revival of the
Winchmore Hill Women's Hockey Club. (Subsequently she married and
now, as Mrs. M. Kingston, lives in Stratford-on-Avon, still with a
keen interest in hockey in the Midlands.)
During the fifties the Section's membership continued to increase.
In 1950/51, with 42 members, a 3rd XI was run and by the 1954/55
Season a 4th XI was fielded for the first six weeks and then added
to the regular fixtures for the 1955/56 Season. Membership
remained constant and four elevens were fielded every Saturday for
the remainder of this decade, although a paragraph in the annual
report for the 1957/58 Season reflected what must be termed
'hazards of the female game'! 'Membership at the beginning of the
Season was at its peak - 63 - but gradually through the influence
of Messrs Cupid and Stork, it dwindled considerable until it was
necessary to cancel the last few matches for the 4th XI'.
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Representative
honours for the County were numerous and E. Bartle, S.
Lowing and P. Springham (now Mrs. Marvel), were selected for
the South teams, reflecting the high standard of play attained
by the Club. Mention in particular must be made of Miss E.
Bartle (now Mrs. Turner) who, in addition to playing for
Middlesex and the South Territorial teams during a period
from 1955 to 1960, reached the England International team in
the 1957/58 Season. In April 1959 she was selected as a
Reserve for the England team that entered the International
Federation of Women's Hockey Association Conference and
Tournament held in Amsterdam. She played in three games, |
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Elaine Bartle |
one of these being the final v Australia
which England won. (Mrs. Turner now lives in Edinburgh and
continues her interest in hockey through the Scottish W.H.A.)
The Section entered the Middlesex Clubs' Tournament annually,
which they won in 1954/55 for the first time since the Section's
revival, were losing finalists in 1957/58 and lost in the
semi-final to Highgate, the eventual winners, in 1953/54.
Due to the reputation the Section had made in the Hockey World,
the Ground was the scene for a number of representative matches.
Firstly for a Reserve Territorial match in 1951/52, then in
1953/54 an I.F.W.H.A's Conference matches was held between New
Zealand and the South of England Reserves. In 1958/59 the South of
England played Australia.
The Sixties
- There can be no doubt that during this era the Hockey Club
reached and maintained its most successful series of Seasons. With
a constant membership of over 60, it was possible to regularly
field five sides from Season 1966/67, in spite of heavy County
representative commitments. During these years most of the first
eleven, and a number of the second eleven who could not get into
the first, received County recognition for Middlesex, Essex, and
Herts and several members were selected for the Middlesex Junior
sides. Higher recognition was obtained by C. Argent (now Mrs.
McCowen), D. Hall (nee Langford), Y. Martin, A. Moody and C.
Picton in selection for the South teams and D. Farman for the East
Reserves.
Particular
mention must be made of the memorable 1962/63 Season, the
unbelievably bad weather on the one hand causing hockey to
be halted for two and a half months, and on the other, the
excitement for the Club of the selection of Sheila
Gray-Williams to play for Wales against England at Wembley.
(Sheila was a member of the Middlesex 1st XI and of North
Wales Territory team.) She scored the only goal of the match
that brought about the first defeat of England at Wembley.
Probably the most successful Season the Hockey Club has ever
known, was 1966/67. |
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Sheila
Gray-Williams |
The first eleven lost only two of
their 23 games, were Middlesex County Club Champions and then
became Club Champions of the South. The crowning achievement was a
2-1 victory against a team, selected by the President of the
Southern Counties, which contained some former Internationals.
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The First XI
- Season 1966/67
Winners Middlesex and Southern Counties Inter-Club
Tournaments
Standing: J. Hall, I. Rickett, D. Farman (Captain), A.
Moody, M. McGhie, Mr. H. Oaker (Umpire), P. Phipps
Kneeling: D. Cole, C. Argent, E. Traue, D. Capps, Y. Martin
Inset: M. Garrett |
In 1968/69 the Club was again successful
in becoming Champions of the South at the Southern Counties Clubs'
Championships - a fine record as winners twice in the three
Seasons of this new Championship.
Throughout this decade there were only a few Seasons when the Club
did not participate in either the semi-finals or the final of the
Middlesex Clubs' Tournament.
The Seventies
- Nothing could emulate, and it is doubtful if the overall
achievements of the previous decade could ever be surpassed. A
steady membership was sustained, reaching nearly 80 in 1973/74,
enabling the continued running of five teams. This was greatly
enhanced by the opening of the new dressing rooms and showers for
the 1974/75 Season.
The Club's standard of play was maintained, but representative
honours were not achieved as prolifically as in past Seasons,
although D. Pearce (nee Keable) is currently playing for the South
Reserve team. It is significant, however, that the continued
strength and consistency enabled the Club to win the Middlesex
Clubs' Tournament for five consecutive Seasons from 1970/71 to
1974/75 and for good measure win the Southern Counties Clubs'
Tournament in 1973/74 as well.
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The First XI
- Season 1973/74
Back: J. Hall (Umpire), D. Capps, D. Farman, J. Fell, P.
Phipps, S. Haley, A. Moody
Front: C. McCowen, E. Ayre, S. Kittrell, J. Kirkland
(Captain), E. Phillips, S. Wilson |
A high honour was accorded the Club on
being asked to act as hosts for a match with the visiting Jamaica
team in August 1975, when they came to play in the First Women's
Hockey World Tournament held in Edinburgh. The High Commissioner
for Jamaica, Mr. Arthur Wint, also of International Athletics
fame, and his wife attended the reception given in the Pavilion.
In January 1973 and 1979 the Ground was chosen for Territorial
matches - for both The South v The Midlands fixtures.
The Section has always had a good proportion of Juniors in their
membership, but in Season 1978/79, an Under 18 'Colts' Section was
formed to provide girls still at school with coaching and matches.
The Mid-Week XI has flourished since its formation in 1969/70, and
two international matches against Argentina and Ohio, U.S.A. were
played to celebrate their 10th Anniversary.
The first of the Annual 1st XI Tournaments run by the Club was
held in October 1958. Seven other invited Clubs taking part. This
successful feature has continued throughout the years with the
Section winning on occasions. In March 1962 a Tournament for the
3rd XI was started on the same lines, and has also achieved
similar success.
The annual match against the Football Section - at Hockey - was
commenced in the 1957/58 Season. These games have provided much
entertainment for players and spectators - most of the honours
being with the Hockey Section. A suitable pewter tankard presented
after the 1961/62 Season's game has always been well filled by the
losers. Two teams have generally been fielded since 1961/62.
Since 1956, tours abroad at Easter saw the Club participating in
many Continental Festivals. This has been in addition to continued
attendance at Festivals throughout the British Isles and other
Tournaments held during the Seasons.
Among other activities in which the Club has taken a major part
are Indoor and Floodlit Hockey, wile during the Summer months they
have turned their hand to Cricket - a Ladies Cricket Section being
formed in 1969.
In conclusion, much credit for success is due to the efficient
back-room work of the Committee, and for this the Hockey Section
has been fortunate in maintaining a stream of dedicated members
who have, in addition, taken their full part in the wider affairs
of the parent Club.
Table Tennis - 1945 to 1979
In the summer of 1945, the Tennis Committee suggested to the
Management Committee that a Table Tennis Section be formed as an
off-shoot of that Section. The proposition was agreed, and at the
end of its first season the Tennis Chairman, Mr. G.A. Roberts,
reported to the Club Annual General Meeting that "The opening
season had been very successful, the Men and Ladies having won their
respective competitions". Mr. Roberts expressed appreciation of
the heating and lighting improvements, but asked if it were not
possible for electricity to be installed! The Club Chairman, Mr.
North, said it has been discussed and in fact arranged, but just
previously local orders under post-war measures had prevented it.
However, facilities did improve and during the next few winters, four, and sometimes five, Mens and
Ladies teams played in the North Middlesex League. By the 1952/53
season the Mens 1st team had progressed from Division 5 to the
Premier Division and the Club had a team in each of the five
Divisions of the League, the Ladies competing in Division 3. Each
season there was a Club Championship and the Pavilion was used for
Inter-League matches. Unfortunately membership dwindled, support
promised did not materialise and at the end of the 1955/56 season
the section was disbanded.
was sufficient interest from a membership of
approximately 25 players for three teams to be entered in the North
Middlesex Table Tennis League for the season 1975/76. The Club
Championships were also revived and the Singles Champion was
presented with the Challenge Cup by the previous holder of 20 years
before.
Interest in the re-establishment of the Section was such that six
teams were entered in different Divisions of the League for 1976/77.
Membership came from other Sections of the Club but the increase in
the number of new members from outside the Club reflected the
growing impact of the Section in the League. Playing conditions
underwent a radical change with extra lighting and heating, etc.
creating a setting second to none in the League. This was
recognised when, soon after their completion, the Section
successfully staged its first representative match.
Steady progress continued during the next two seasons to the extent
that at the parent Club Annual General Meeting in 1979 the Sections
was officially recognised as a playing Section with representation
on the Management Committee. The introduction of Club nights on
Tuesday and Sunday evenings during the Winter have proved very
successful with an Annual Dinner/Disco being a highlight of the
year.
Non Playing Section
The Club has always made a point of encouraging and welcoming
friends and spectators to become subscribing members and to avail
themselves of its amenities. It is therefore perhaps surprising
that it was not until as recently as the Annual General Meeting of
the Parent Club in 1959, that a Non-Playing Section was formally
constituted with representation on the Management Committee. Its
membership includes, in addition to the above, past players and
wives or husbands of all playing members.
Monthly Whist Drives are held by the Section throughout the
Winter, occasional social evenings and an excellent Christmas
Supper. They also support the many social functions organised by
other Club Committees.
As well as manning the Tea Hut during the Summer months, members
of the Section regularly help with the catering facilities and
licensed bar.
Over the years, the Section has grown from strength to strength
and proved to be a valuable asset for which the Club is indeed
grateful.
Conclusion
For reasons which have been given and of space, it has not
been possible to detail the whole story, but there has been
fascination and pleasure in unraveling the long and ever widening
facets of the Club over the past hundred years.
As this record is dedicated to Club Cricket at The Paulin Ground,
it is only fitting that it should have the final words. The game
itself and the spirit in which it is played remain unsullied,
though its technique and playing conditions have changed considerably.
Competitive it always has been, but it is to be hoped that the
coming of Leagues and Knock-Out competitions, entry to which is
necessary to protect the Club's fixture list and its status, will
not lead to an unwanted change in approach to the game generally.
After a sporting struggle on the field, the Club is proud of its
sociability and the pleasure of sharing the jugs of those who may
have done rather well with bat or ball.
And so, to all Members, in whatever sphere, may the ensuing years
towards the second century continue to be fruitful and further the
best interests of everyone associated with the Winchmore Hill
Cricket Club.
Back to History
Back to The Early Years
Back to Between the
Wars
[page updated 17 November 2002]
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