A VERY HAPPY BOXING DAY TO ALL - PLUS A GLANCE AT OUR CHAIR’S AGM REPORT AND REMARKS ON SEASON 2020

Date: 26th December 2020

Whatever we do, with the same approach and support from everyone – it will be a success.

A frightening, bewildering and difficult year in all walks of life with suffering, loss of life and many finding it difficult to cope.It seems almost irrelevant to be reporting on an eight-week season of adaptive cricket, played for beer, but it probably isn’t. Cricket is what we do and is the reason for clubs to exist, for playing sport, for friendship and for being part of the community.

Our Love Lane Leagues – Covid Cups – Regional groups – it didn’t matter how they were referred to, began on 1 August and ended on 19 September.

By all accounts (from the official feedback, emails, phone calls, and even (mostly) on Social Media) they were a success. They were. We were delighted with the way everyone worked together and made them a success. Huge thanks are therefore due to:

The ECB for working so well with the government, producing a safe format and enabling us to play.
The Lancashire Cricket Foundation (LCF) for taking the lead with all the major leagues in the County, with clear communication, decision making and support.
The Clubs and all their volunteers for implementing all the appropriate measures and making it happen.
The players for understanding the need for bubbles and bringing their own teas.
The Umpires from the MCUA for providing coverage for the eight weeks, very much appreciated.
The Management Committee and the members of the Restart Group for their work and commitment, particularly in the early months.
Love Lane Brewery, our new sponsor from 1 April, who immediately found themselves in the same trading position as other pubs and restaurants but provided us with something to play for. We look forward to continuing to develop our relationship next year.

Finally we have set out our plans for 2021 and hope for a return to something more normal. Should we need to adapt again – we will. Whatever we do, with the same approach and support from everyone – it will be a success.

John Williams

Chair Love Lane Liverpool and District Cricket Competition.