MEMBERS and guests of Downley Cricket Club enjoyed their annual dinner and dance held at Adams Park last week. Following a delicious meal they danced to the music of Andy's Disco. Unfortunately, the club's chairman, Pat Weedon was unable to attend to present the awards, but Peter Hall stepped in to do the honours. The Downley 1st 11 Player of the Year was Tom Peacock, 2nd 11 Player of the Year was Ray Manka. Special awards were made to three young cricketers - Michael Duffy, Jonathan Cox and Matt Avery. Veteran, Rod Hermon celebrated his 65th birthday in May, he was presented with an engraved crystal glass tankard.

DOWNLEY Dynamos under sevens and eights had a dream day last Saturday when, in the morning, they were given two hours coaching at Adams Park. In the afternoon they were taken on a tour of the ground and took part in the half-time penalty shoot-out in front of a crowd of over 5000.

The players were Luke Woodwardgoalkeeper, Oliver Beckingham, Marcus Shallow, Charlie Chalmers, Rory Labron, Sean Pulley, Bradley Lonsdale, Jake Kelly, Daniel Ridgley, John Pitchers, James Piggin, Jack Stotter, Amy Cobbler, Sam Haynes, Emily Clarke, Chris Sutton, Thomas Gray, Jordan Layne, Samuel Harris, Chow San Logoalkeeper.

Last Sunday due to the bad combination of bad weather and school half-term the under 14s were the only players. They unfortunately lost by 2-0.

THERE are still tickets available for the quiz night at the Memorial Hall tomorrow night. Tickets are available from the Post Office, and by ringing Doreen Biggin on 01494 531719 or Pam Brooks on 01494 436161 and cost £6.50 each to include a fish and chip supper. They can be purchased at the door for £4.50 and excludes supper. You are requested to bring your own drinks. Proceeds are in aid of modernisation of the hall.

A HOME-MADE cake stall is being held on Saturday morning, November 1 outside the War Memorial Hall commencing at 9.30am in aid the Memorial Hall funds.

THE Downley Theatre Group are arranging seats to the shows: Phantom of the Opera and My Fair Lady for April 8, 2003. Due to the demand for seats the closing dates to book for these shows is November 6 next week.

Ticket prices are £35 for My Fair Lady and £37.50 for Phantom of the Opera. The coaches will leave from Cross Court so call Clare Baker on 01494 437552 now.

FINALLY I am sure you will all join me in sending our deepest sympathy to the close family of Linda Hunt (nee Copcutt) who died in hospital near her home last week in Suffolk. Linda, aged 48 was well known in the village and attended Downley School. She was a keen Brownie and a Girl Guide. She leaves her husband, Adrian and two young sons, Stephen and Thomas. Linda's parents are David and the late Pat Copcutt of Grays Lane. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.