MALVERN held their end-ofseason prize-giving at Regency Road to celebrate a successful year both on and off the field.

The first XI clinched promotion to Worcestershire League Division Two in a dramatic last game of the season when they pipped Harborne thirds to second spot.

Their awards after finishing behind champions Lye included Andy Cullen for batting and debutant Steve Lake for bowling with a special accolade for Malvern veteran Rob Francis.

Skipper Anthony Arnold also presented a deserved certificate from the county league to Dave Hinton, Clive Cullen and Ian Walwyn which was awarded for groundsman of the year.

However, at the club’s annual meeting, Arnold announced his decision to stand down as skipper after six years and he will now be replaced by Andy Cullen.

A minute’s silence was observed at the meeting in memory of the much-loved Gerald Wadley, who died earlier in the year not long after taking on the role of president.

Long-standing member Martin Mudway was unanimously supported in taking up the position for the future.

The presentation evening heard both the second and third teams produced huge improvements in their performances.

Second XI batsman of the year went to Dan Besgrove with Chay Ankers picking up the bowling gong.

The captain’s pick was Lewis Hill for his consistent contributions throughout the year.

Mike Berry received the third XI batting trophy and Mike McCollum the bowling prize.

A special mention and award went to young Connor Berry whose all-round performance on the pitch shone through.

The seconds will be captained by Ankers in 2014, the thirds by Chris Prosser and the Sunday side by Sam Abel.

Malvern are looking for new players and sponsors for the coming season.

For further information and club contacts, visit the website at malverncc.

co.uk