The 1983 season…………………………………………

Bails is the main man / two cup defeats in the space of two July days / a 38-ball unbeaten 90 from Rob Acton /

The 1983 season began with an April 30^th home game against neighbours Cullompton and the contest proved to be one in which ball ruled over bat as – when play came to a premature end at 6.50pm owing to rain no fewer than 18 wickets had fallen for the grand total of 106 runs scored off 77 overs and two balls. Bradninch batted first and were bowled out for just 59 in 39 overs. Jim Foat and Simon Bailey opened the innings for Bradninch, and both were sent back with two runs to their name, dismissed in successive deliveries, five overs into the game. Derrick Foan scored four and Mike Foan was run out without troubling the scorers before John Freeman fell for two and Dave Mitchell lost his wicket with 11 runs to his name. Sam Mullick, batting at seven, provided the home teams top score with an unbeaten 70-ball 26. Billy Wells scored three before he was run out and the last three in the batting order, Paul Freeman, John Wingrove and Roger Miles all failed to trouble the scorer! For Cullompton it was R Heale who did most of the damage with his figures being 4-17 from 10 overs. T Bell opened the bowling, and his figures were 3-5 from 10 overs while the other Cully bowling returns were D Retter (1-19 from 13 overs) and M Elliot (0-9 from six). The Bradninch bowlers soon had the visiting batsmen in trouble as John Wingrove and Roger Miles bowled eight maidens in the first 12 overs at the end of which Cully were 5-1, the wicket being that of D Percy (1), bowled by Wingrove. M Ingersent (1) and A Garnham (6) both also fell to Wingrove who took a break after a 12 overs spell that saw him with figures of 3-11! M Baker was bowled by Paul Freeman for 11 and K Norman was run out to leave Cully 35-5. It was soon 37-7 as D Retter (1) and M Smith (1) both fell to Dave Mitchell (2-7 from 7.2 overs). M Elliot was trapped leg before to see Wingrove claim a fourth wicket and, when rain washed out play, Cully had D Blanchard (1), and R Heale (1), both at the wicket. T Bell was the only Cully player not to bat. John Wingrove returned the best of the Bradninch bowling returns with figures that read 4-14 from 15 overs while the other returns were: Roger Miles (0-7 from 8 overs), Billy Wells (0-7 from 3) and Paul Freeman (1-4 from 5).

A trip to Axminster followed on May 8^th and the home team were bowled out for just 86 in one ball shy of 45 overs. Only P Scotchford (27), G Davis (20) and A Cross (12) made double figures for the hosts as third change bowler, Jim Foat, claimed four wickets for 17 runs from an eight over spell. Three other bowlers claimed wickets with the returns being: Paul Nott (2-11 from 10.4), John Wingrove (2-13 from 14) and Dave Mitchell (1-17 from 8) while the other bowler used was Roy Nott (0-19 from 4). Derrick Foan then carried his bat through the run chase to see Bradninch to an eight wicket win with the winning line crossed at 90-2. Foan was unbeaten on 21 scored off 113 balls faced while the other not out bat at stumps was Jim Foat (22 from 21). The two batters to be out, were: Simon Bailey (28 from 41 balls) and Sam Mullick (10 off 44). The other players on duty for Bradninch at Axminster were John Freeman, Mike Foan, Dave Mitchell, Paul Nott, Pete Hardy, John Wingrove and Roy Nott. The two Axminster bowlers to claim a wicket each were P Spong (1-24 from 13.4) and P Scotchford (1-22 from 13).

Whimple & Whiteways were the May 14^th visitors to Kensham Park, and the visitors batted first and were bowled out for 90 thanks, in the main, to a five-wicket haul for John Wingrove who posted figures of 5-28 from 13 overs. All five of the Wingrove wickets were clean bowled! R Persey (28), R Stephen (27) and B Carter (13) were the only batters into double figures and the other home bowling returns were Sam Mullick (2-10 from four), Roger Miles (1-18 from 11), Paul Freeman (1-10 from six) and Chris Acton (0-18 from five). Bradninch chalked up a six-wicket win, sealing victory on 91-4 with Mike Foan unbeaten on 47 and Chris Acton unbeaten on two as the winning line was reached. The wickets to fall were Derrick Foan (11), Simon Bailey (9), Sam Mullick (2) and John Freeman (12). N Evans (3-17 from 14 overs was the most successful of the bowlers for Whimple & Whiteways.

Chelston were next at Kensham Park and Bradninch batted first closing on 98-8 after 49 overs. Paul Nott, batting at number three, top scored with 26 but the only other double figure scores were Rob Acton (12), Chris Acton (10), Simon Bailey (18) and C Bishop (11 not out) recording double-figure scores.  The other home batting returns were Derrick Foan (8), Dave Mitchell (2), Del French (0), Steve Birley (5) and Roy Nott (2 not out). John Wingrove was the only home player not to bat. However, that sub 100 score was to prove more than enough to win the contest as the visitors were bowled out for just 47 in 29 overs and one ball. I Western (24) and R Clements (11) were the only other batters into double figures while the Bradninch bowling effort was led by Dave Mitchell (4-8 from six overs) while the other returns were John Wingrove (2-14 from 9), Paul Nott (2-12 from six), Roy Nott (1-9 from eight) and Chris Acton who took a wicket with the only ball he bowled!

Friday, May 27^th saw Tiverton Heathcoat visit Bradninch for an 18-overs-of-eight balls contest. The visitors batted first and were bowled out for 98 with one ball left of their 18 8-ball allotment. T Barwell (40), R Church (17) and M Selby (14) were the only batters into double figures as four bowlers shared the wicket taking honours. The Bradninch bowling returns were Chris Acton (2-17 from 3.7 overs), Paul Freeman (2-17 from 4), Gary Newall (2-6 from 2) and Paul Nott (1-24 from 4) while the other bowler to see action was Dave Mitchell (0-28 from 4). Bradninch were beaten by a margin of nine runs as they closed on 89-9. The full batting returns were D Foan (9), S Bailey (23), J McKinnell (9), M Foan (0), P Nott (10), G Newall (8), J Freeman (7), D Mitchell (7), C Acton (6 not out), R Acton (0) and P Freeman (1 not out) as Bradninch closed on 89-9. D Taylor, with figures of 4-21, did the bulk of the damage and there were two wickets each for T Davey and C Barton.

The final Saturday of May saw Bradninch host touring side Kings Heath Highfield (KHH) and the home side batted first, closing on 147-6 after 39.4 overs. Chris Acton top scored with 52 and Simon Bailey scored 44 before Derrick Foan (21) and Rob Acton – who was dropped no fewer than three times – was not out 24 when the innings closed. Mike Foan (1) and Sam Mullick (0) were the other home batters into action. The rest of the home line-up was Dave Mitchell, Steve Birley, John Wykes, Roy Nott and Paul Freeman. Revell and Dyke each claimed two wickets for KHH who were then bowled out for just 30 – leaving Bradninch, who had scored just 147, winners of the match by a margin of 117 runs! It was Wykes who was the star of the show, the left arm spinner claiming a ‘fivefer’ with his return being 5-4 from six overs. Paul Freeman (2-9 off six) and Chris Acton (2-16 off 8) and Dave Mitchell (1-0 from three overs), were the other bowling returns.

May 29, saw Bradninch play a third game in as many days with the Sunday fixture being a Whitbread Cup meeting at home to Culmstock. The 40-overs-per-sdoe contest saw Bradninch bat first and be bowled out for just 83 in 37.4 overs. Only Simon Bailey and Derrick Foan recorded double figure scores with the full Bradninch order reading D Foan (13), J Freeman (1), S Bailey (23), M Foan (4), S Mullick (6), C Acton (7), R Nott (4), R Acton (7), D Mitchell (9 not out), P Freeman (0) and J Wykes (0). F Huddy did the bulk of the damage with his return being 5-12 from six overs and four balls. However, and not for the first time in the 1983 campaign, a low Bradninch score proved sufficient to win the match as they then bowled Culmstock out for 82 to win the contest by a single run! Only N Hunt (14) and P Wright (11) reached double figures with the bat as Culmstock were bowled out in exactly 40 overs – the final wicket being a run out. Paul Nott was the star of the show with the wonderful figures of 5-17 from nine overs. Dave Mitchell (2-13 from nine) and Chris Acton (2-17 from 9) were the other wicket takers while the other bowlers to play their part were Paul Freeman (0-17 from 9), Sam Mullick, who only sent down two overs, but both were maidens and John Wykes (0-8 from two).

A fourth game in four days followed with a Monday, May 30^th home game against touring side Pensford who invited Bradninch to bat first and the home side closed on 170-7 led there by a knock of 80 from Chris Acton. John McKinnell (21) and Francis Baker (24) were the other home batters to contribute. Colin Bishop, Steve Birley and Del French were the three who ‘did not bat’ and the other home players to bat were Roger Miles (0 not out), John Wykes (3), Paul Nott (11), Pete Hardy (7) and Rob Acton (15).  P Thompson, with 3-24 from 11 overs, was the pick of the bowlers for Pensford who then replied with 35-1 before rain washed the contest out, A Pete Hardy catch gave Roger Miles the only wicket to fall before play ended prematurely.

Tuesday, May 31^st saw a home game against regular visitors Hampton who put Bradninch in and saw the home side close on 167-3. Chris Acton scored a second successive half century, top scoring with 59 – he was dropped on 0 and again on 58. Phil Treseder opened with Acton and scored 43 – the pair put on 86 for the opening wicket. Francis Baker went in at number three and he scored 17 before unbeaten knocks from Simon Bailey, who hit a run-a-ball 37 and Dave Mitchell (8) saw Bradninch to that close of 167-3. M Marmon, with 2-44, had the best of the Hampton bowling returns. Hampton then replied with 79-7 from the 39 overs they faced. J Flint top scored with 40 while the Bradninch bowing returns were Simon Steer (3-8 from seven overs), Chris Acton (3-10 from 10), Dave Mitchell (1-22 from 11), S Bailey (0-1 from five) and Steve Birley (0-34 from six).

June began with a 4^th of the month home game against touring side Dowty Ashchurch. Bradninch batted first and closed on 160-8 off 44 overs. Simon Bailey opened and top scored with 59. After Derrick Foan (15), Pete Hardy (8), Steven Weeks (0), Steve Birley (0) and John Wykes (0) had all been in and out it was left to Francis Baker (20), John Freeman (26) and Chris Acton (24 not out) to close out the home innings. Simon Steer was not out nought at the close. P Morris (3-59), was the pick of the Dowty Ashchurch bowling and their batters then scored 105-7 from 36 overs. S Craggs (53) top scored for the batting side while the Bradninch bowling returns were Roy Nott (2-16 from 8), Paul Freeman (1-13 from 6), Francis Baker (1-6 from 2), Simon Bailey (1-14 from 8), Chris Acton (1-3 from 1), Simon Steer (1-13 from 3), Steve Birley (0-5 from 5) and John Wykes (0-27 from 7).

June 6^th saw Exeter St James in action at Kensham Park for a Bass Charrington Cup contest (20 six ball overs per side). Batting first, Bradninch closed on 93-9. The Bradninch batting line-up read Derrick Foan (19), Simon Bailey (26), Gary Newall (6), Chris Acton (0), Sam Mullick (16), Mike Foan (2), John Freeman (4), Paul Nott (7), Pete Hardy (5), John Wingrove (3 not out) and Paul Freeman was the one ‘did not bat’. J Chittenden, with 3-7 from his four overs, was the pick of the bowling returns. Exeter St James were then bowled out for just 47 with only Dave Vranch (18) and David Evans (16) making any impression. The ‘best of the rest’ was a knock of eight from J Rickard while the other eight batsmen could only muster three runs between them. John Wingrove sent down two overs for a 2-0 return, but even that was topped by the 3-9 from 3.5 overs sent down by Sam Mullick. Paul Nott (1-6 from three) and Paul Freeman (1-18 from 4) were the other wicket takers and Chris Acton (0-12 from 4) was the other bowler.

The Bradninch Midweek XI were in action at home to touring side Eton Grove on June 7^th. Batting first, Bradninch were bowled out for 95 in 38 overs. Derrick Foan held the innings together with a half century. Indeed, his 52 was almost 60% of the home total! Francis Baker was the only other batter into double figures with his score of 10. The rest of the home batting order was P Pearce (0), Paul Nott (8), Mike Foan (6), Dave Trump (3), Simon Bailey (0), Bill Wells (5 not out), Simon Steer (0), Steve Birley (4) and Roger Miles (0). Page, with 3-14 and Kane, with 2-17, were the main wicket takers for Eton Grove who were then bowled out for 66 in 26 overs and five balls. Williams and Holmes both scored 17 for the touring side while the Bradninch bowling returns were Simon Bailey (3-10 from four overs), Paul Nott (3-19 from seven), Bill Wells (2-12 from 6), Roger Miles (1-11 from 8), Simon Steer (1-4 from 0.5 overs) and F Baker (0-3 from one).

Wibbandune were the June 9^th visitors to Bradninch with the home side batting first and closing their 20 overs on 92-7. Sam Mullick (23), Roger Miles (22) and Chris Acton (14) were the principle scorers while B Ansell (3-33 from seven overs) was the pick of the touring side’s bowlers. Wibbandune then replied with 51-9 from 20 overs. Chris Acton (3-8 from five), Sam Mullick (3-15 from six), Del French (2-1 from one) and Francis Baker (1-11 from three) were the home bowlers to claim wickets. Others to bowl were Michael Ellicott (0-5 from two) and Roger Miles (0-6 from three).

June 11^th saw Bradninch host London & Manchester in an Exeter & East Devon League game. The visitors batted first and were bowled out for 69 in 27 overs and two balls. All four of the home bowlers claimed at least one wicket with the respective returns led by an impressive 5-35 from the 13 overs sent down by Paul Nott. The other returns were Simon Bailey (2-13 from five), Roger Miles (1-0 from 0.2) and John Wingrove (1-13 from four). Bradninch romped to a 10-wicket win, crossing the line in just 17.2 overs thanks to Simon Bailey (37 not out) and Derrick Foan (21 not out). The remainder of the Bradninch team was Jim Foat, John Freeman, Paul Nott, Mike Foan, Sam Mullick, Chris Acton, Pete Hardy, Roger Miles and John Wingrove.

Next up was a Whitbread KO Cup Devon Area semi-final home meeting with Werrington. Bradninch batted first and after their 40 overs, closed on 144-9. Rob Acton (27no), Sam Mullick (24), Derrick Foan (19), M Foan (17) and Simon Bailey (17) scored the bulk of the runs. The others to bat were John Freeman (10), Chris Acton (6), Richard Money (2), Paul Nott (1), Dave Mitchell (1) and John Wingrove (0 not out). B Baker (4-27) and R Cobbledick (3-24) were the pick of the Werrington bowlers and their batsmen then closed out a five wicket win on 145-5 in 31.4 overs. Simon Bailey (2-22 from six), John Wingrove (1-21 from eight), Dave Mitchell (1-29 from nine) and Paul Nott (1-48 from 8.4 overs) were the home wicket takers.

A friendly with visiting Filleigh was next and the June 18^th game saw Filleigh bat first and they were bowled out for 70 in 33 overs and one ball. Chris Acton opened the bowling and returned excellent figures of 4-9 from 11 overs. Steve Birley finished with figures of 3-9 from 5.1 overs while the other two wickets were claimed by Paul Freeman ((2-24 from 11). Bradninch then sealed a six wicket win thanks to a knock of 36 from Chris Acton. John Wykes hit an unbeaten 12 as Bradninch closed on 74-4. Francis Baker (1), Colin Bishop (11), Paul Freeman (11) and Steve Birley (0 not out) were the others to bat. Those that ‘did not bat’ were Neil Chambers, Steven Weeks, Les Kent, Peter Escott and Keith Walker.

A league game at Ottery St Mary was next and it saw the home side bat first and close on 166 all out in 45 overs. Cottle, with 52 and Giles, with 34, scored the bulk of the Ottery runs whole the Bradninch bowling returns were Jim Foat (5-43 from 14 overs), Dave Mitchell (2-40 from 10), John Wingrove (1-38 from nine) and Paul Not (0-32 from 12). Bradninch then replied with 129-5. Simon Bailey scored 40 and the not out batters at stumps were Richard Money (22) and John Freeman (12). Others to bat were Mike Foan (4), Sam Mullick (13), Jim Foat (13) and Paul Nott (1). Tierney, with 3-23 from 11 overs, did the main damage with the ball for Ottery.

The Midweek XI were next in action for a home meeting with Gents of Wivenhoe. Batting first, a 105-ball 78 from Simon Bailey – he hit eight fours and two sixes – together with an unbeaten 29 from number eight bat John Wykes and 21 from Rob Acton, helped their side to 160-7 from 45 overs. Others to bat for the home side were Paul Nott (9), Mike Foan (2), Trevor Lloyds (0), Chris Acton (1), Bill Wells (13) and Steve Birley (5 not out). The two who ‘did not bat’ were Roger Miles and John Wingrove. C Higglesdon (4-24) was the pick of the touring sides bowling and their batters replied with a successful run chase on 161-5. A Herrington hit 57 before being caught by John Wykes off John Wingrove and S McLay hit an unbeaten 42. Paul Nott (2-25 from 9), John Wingrove (2-36 from 8.1) and Chris Acton (1-23 from six) were the successful home bowlers.

Exeter & East Devon League action next with a June 25^th home meeting with Alphington that saw Bradninch bat first and be bowled out for 109 in 43 overs. Jim Foat, with a 40-ball five boundary 31, was the star of the batting show. Mike Foan hit an 85-ball unbeaten 27 but the only other double figure score was the 10 clocked by number ten bat Paul Nott. The other Bradninch batting returns were Simon Bailey (4), Derrick Foan (0), Sam Mullick (3), John Freeman (1), Rob Acton (5), Dave Mitchell (3), Chris Acton (1) and John Wingrove (0). M Knight (3-17) and M Corby (3-28) were the principle wicket takers for Alphington who then scraped home on 110-9 to secure a single wicket success. Jim Foat completed a fine all-round shift with a ‘fivefer’, the former Gloucestershire County Cricket Club player claiming 5-21 from a dozen overs. Paul Nott (2-27 from 13.1), John Wingrove (1-19 from 11) and Dave Mitchell (1-25 from 7), were the other bowlers to claim wickets.

Thorverton were the visitors for a June 26^th meeting that saw the home side bat first and be bowled out for 78 in 41 overs. The full Bradninch batting effort read Simon Bailey (1), Derrick Foan (0), John McKinnell (14), Richard Money (16), Trevor Lloyd (0), Paul Nott (1), Chris Acton (9), Rob Acton (5), Paul Freeman (11 not out), Roger Miles (2) and Roy Nott (6). M Denford (3-25) and S Hussey (2-7) did most of the damage with the ball for the Thors who then replied with 82-6. Number seven bat Mike Denford was unbeaten on 31 at the close. Paul Freeman (3-19 from seven), Roger Miles (2-13 from eight) and Roy Nott (1-25 from 7) claimed the wickets for Bradninch.

June 27^th saw Bradninch host Exeter Civil Service in a Bass Charrington (20 six-ball overs) quarter-final tie. The visitors batted first and closed their 20 overs on 116-4. R Caryll top scored for the Civil Servants with an unbeaten 35-ball 46. Paul Nott (2-25 from four) and Chris Acton (2-20 from four) were the home wicket takers. Bradninch booked a last-four spot with a six-wicket win, closing the game out on 117-4 with five balls of their 20-overs to be bowled. Opener Derek Foan fell for one as did number three bat John McKinnell and then Richard Money was run out for one. Simon Bailey, who had opened with Foan, was run out for 29 but then Paul Nott hit an unbeaten 39, scored off just 25 balls – Nott hit two sixes and two fours – and John Freeman hit an unbeaten 35 as Bradninch sealed success.

The last Wednesday in June saw Bradninch play another limited over cup tie with a Devon Junior Cup (this a competition of 18 eight-ball overs) with Cullompton the opposition for the tie at Kensham Park. Bradninch batted first and closed on 131-5 with the principle run providers being Simon Bailey (41) and Gary Newall, who hit a 30-ball unbeaten 37 – a knock that included four sixes. The others to bat for Bradninch were Derrick Foan (0), John McKinnell (8), John Freeman (17), Paul Nott (5) and Dave Mitchell (3 not out). The ‘did not bat’ players were Chris Acton, Mike Foan, Roger Miles and John Wingrove. Cullompton were then bowled out for 88 in 17.3 overs. R Heale (14), K Norman (12) and A Parsons (11) were the only batters into double figures while all five of the Bradninch bowlers claimed at least one wicket. The bowling returns were John Wingrove (3-18 from four), Chris Acton (2-9 from 2.3), Dave Mitchell (2-14 from 4), Paul Nott (2-23 from 4) and Roger Miles (1-18 from 3).

The 14th and final game of June was a midweek XI meeting with touring side Whitchurch who batted first and closed their 44 overs on 147-8. Moran (30) and Paine (30) were the principle run scorers. In terms of the home bowling effort, it was second change John Wykes who took the honours with an impressive return of 4-34 from nine overs. Chris Acton (0-11 from five) and Paul Freeman ((1-28 from nine) took the new ball and the others to turn their arms over were Roger Miles (0-17 from 8), Trevor Lloyd ((0-24 from nine) and Steve Birley (2-17 from four). Simon Bailey (35) and Mike Foan (28) launched the reply and then, after Richard Money had fallen for four, Chris Acton (30) and John McKinnell (37 not out) added 66 for the fourth wicket. Just one more batsman fell – John Wykes for a four-ball duck and the other not out batsman when a five-wicket win was sealed, was Trevor Lloyd (0).

The first game of July was a home meeting with Dorchester who batted first and declared on 163-9 after 41 overs and four balls. S Barrett top scored for the visitors with 43. Four of the five home bowlers shared the wicket taking with the best of the returns being the 3-41 from the 14 overs sent down by Dave Mitchell. John Wykes (3-45 from 12), Chris Acton (2-21 from 7.4) and Charles Low (1-26 from 7), were the other wicket takers. Bradninch sealed a five wicket win thanks to a 115-ball unbeaten 66 from opener Derrick Foan. The ‘best of the rest’ from home batters was the 20 scored by Sam Mullick while the others to bat were John McKinnell (17), Mike Foan (16), Rob Acton (9), Dave Mitchell (13) and Francis Baker (3).

Ealing Wanderers were the July 4^th visitors and the home side batted first. Derrick Foan and Simon Bailey opened the innings and with the former out for a fourth ball duck, Bailey went on to top score with 63. Bradninch were eventually bowled out for 141 inside 40 overs. The rest of the batting card was Trevor Lloyd (11), Rob Acton (10), Chris Acton (10), Paul Nott (16), Francis Baker (0), Chris Bishop (1), Steve Birley (7), Simon Steer (13 not out) and John Wykes (0). M Jackman took 5-34 for Ealing Wanderers who replied with 142-5 to win by five wickets. P Tucker (45) and T Mason (43) carried their side to victory while Simon Bailey (2-18 from seven) was the best of the home bowling returns. Chris Acton, Paul Nott and Simon Steer each claimed a single wicket.

July 9^th saw Bradninch travel to meet London & Manchester in an Exeter & East Devon League game that saw the home side bat first and close their 45 overs on 133-8. G Sharland (35) and P Taylor (25) were the principal scorers with the bat while, after Charles Low (1-24 from 7) and Jim Foat (1-37 from 11|) had taken the new ball, first change Dave Mitchell with 3-32 from 16 and second change Simon Bailey (3-23 from 9) took the bulk of the wickets. Bradninch claimed a thrilling single wicket win thanks to a 40-ball 34 from Jim Foat. John Freeman (21), Derrick Foan (16) and Mike Foan (13) were the other batters into double figures and the last two – who came together with Bradninch on 124-9, were Dave Mitchell (5 not out) and Charles Low (1 not out). The others to bat were Simon Bailey (0), John McKinnell (8), Sam Mullick (4), Rob Acton (6) and Chris Acton (9).

Next up was a Bass Charrington Cup semi-final game at Feniton where the home side batted first and closed their 20 overs on 119-7. Francis Pyle (43) and John Virgin (27) top scored for the home side while fourth change bowler Sam Mullick (3-18 from two), John Wingrove (2-18 from four), Paul Nott (1-14 from four) and Chris Acton (1-15 from 4), shared the wicket taking. Bradninch replied with 115-4 to lose by just four runs. Simon Bailey top scored with 47, Martin Boyle hit 24 and Derrick Foan scored 20 while Stuart Bright (1-19 from four) and Francis Pyle (1-18) from four plus two run outs, accounted for Bradninch wickets.

Cup cricket continued with a July 14^th DCA Junior Cup ¼ final tie at home to Braunton. Bradninch batted first and, from 18 8-ball overs scored 109-9 thanks, in the main, to an unbeaten 48 from Derrick Foan. The only other double figure score was the 13 from opener Martin Boyle. The other batting scores were Simon Bailey (4), Rob Acton (9), John McKinnell (1), Dave Mitchell (1), Paul Nott (0), Mike Foan (2), Sam Mullick (6), Chris Acton (7) and John Wingrove (7 not out). It was two cup tie defeats in as many days as Braunton scored 110-5 with T Yeo top scoring with 33. The Bradninch bowling returns were Paul Nott (1-21 from 3.7), John Wingrove (1-15 from 4), Sam Mullick (0-17 from 2), Dave Mitchell (2-23 from four) and Chris Acton (0-14 from 3).

A friendly away at Exeter Civil Service was next and the home side batted first and scored 169-3 led there by D Bidder (62) and D Chave (58) Bradninch used seven different bowlers with the best of the returns being the 1-21 from the four overs sent down by fifth change Trevor Lloyd. Bradninch were then bowled out for just 81. The full Bradninch card was John McKinnell (14), Martin Boyle (16), John Freeman (8), Chris Acton (5), Dave Mitchell (8), Rob Acton (14), Chris Bishop (0), Trevor Lloyd (11), Roger Miles (10 not out), Paul Freeman (0) and Charles Low (0). P Bidder took 4-9 for the victorious home side.

It was back to Exeter & East Devon League action on July 17^th with a trip over to Whimple where the home side batted first and scored 92-8 before rain arrived at 4.07 to abandon the match. John Wingrove (1-20 from 14) and Paul Nott (3-22 from 14) took the new ball and the others to bowl were Simon Bailey (3-7 from four) and Dave Mitchell (1-30 from four).

Slimbridge were the touring visitors for a July 23^rd meeting that saw Bradninch bat first and power their way to 252-6 from 39.3 overs. Simon Bailey (66) and John McKinnell (79) put on 131 for the first wicket and then McKinnell and Sam Mullick (65 not out) added 52 for the second wicket. The others to bat for the home side were Rob Acton (21), Chris Acton (4), Francis Baker (2), Steve Birley(0) while the ‘did not bat’ were Roger Miles, Trevor Lloyd, Simon Steer and Charles Low. Evans, with 3-46 was the pick of the Slimbridge bowlers and the match ended in a draw as the visitors replied with 157-5 with M Harmer top scoring with an unbeaten 81. All 10 of the home outfield players bowled with the pick of the returns being the 3-42 from nine overs sent down by Charles Low. Roger Miles and Simon Bailey were the other wicket takers.

Teignmouth was the destination for the next game and the home side batted first closing on 158-8. Fourth change bowler Sam Mullick was the ‘star’ of the bowling show with his return of 4-31 from five overs. Paul Nott (2-49 from 8) and Charles Low (1-20 from six) were the other wicket takers for Bradninch who replied with 159-5 to win by five wickets. Simon Bailey (50) and Richard Money (48) gave the side a 98 run start before John McKinnell and Mike Foan were both out with nine runs to their name. Paul Nott then hit 21 before Sam Mullick (12 not out) and Chris Acton (1 not out) saw the side to victory.

Alcester & Ragley were the final midweek visitors to Bradninch in July and the touring side put the hosts in and, at tea, Ninch had scored 210-5 led there by Simon Bailey (72 from 62 balls) and Paul Nott, who hit an unbeaten 68 from 47 balls. The other home batters were Mike Foan (24), Derrick Foan (14), Rob Acton (4), Francis Baker (8) and Chris Acton (1 not out). Trevor Lloyd, Steve Birley, John Wykes and P Swanapoel were the four to not bat. M Page took 3-30 for the tourists who were then bowled out for 134. John Wykes claimed 3-25 and there were two wickets each for Chris Acton (2-36 from nine) and P Swanapoel (2-25 from 4) before fourth change Simon Bailey wrapped things up with 3-1 from two overs.

Chichester Nomads were the visitors on the penultimate day of the month. The home side batted first and closed on 170-6. John McKinnell (42), Derrick Foan (40), Simon Bailey (30) and Sam Mullick (24 not out) all contributed before the touring side were bowled out for 77 in two balls shy of 20 overs. Charles Low (3-17 from nine) and Chris Acton (3-41) reduced the visiting side to 30-6 and then Del French claimed three wickets in just one over.

July finished with a Sunday, July 31^st Exeter & East Devon League game at home to Ottery St Mary where the home side batted first and were bowled out for 188. All five of the Bradninch bowlers claimed at least one wicket. Paul Nott topped the returns with 3-51 from 15 overs and the other returns were Dave Mitchell (2-40 from 13), Chris Acton (1-16 from six), Paul Freeman (1-15 from four) and John Wykes (1-49 from seven). In reply, Bradninch were wobbling on 37-5 when the match was abandoned owing to rain. Simon Bailey (1), Derrick Foan (4), John McKinnell (7), Martin Boyle (1) and Paul Nott (3) were all back in the pavilion with former Exeter City footballer Jimmy Giles (3-14 from 10.1 overs), doing the bulk of the damage. When rained ended the game prematurely, John Freeman (14) and Mike Foan (0) were at the wicket. Still to bat were Chris Acton, Dave Mitchell, John Wykes and Paul Freeman.

The first game in August was played on the 7^th and it was a friendly versus Tiverton Heathcoat 2^nd XI. Bradninch batted first and closed on 164-8 thanks, in the main to a knock of 55 (ten 4s and one six) from opener Martin Boyle and an unbeaten 52-ball 53 from John Freeman who went into bat at number seven. Richard Money, batting at number three, scored 16 and Roy Nott was on 10 when he was forced to retire hurt. Other home batting scores were John McKinnell (4), Paul Nott (10), Chris Acton (0), Rob Acton (0), P Swanipoel (5), Steve Birley (1) and Charles Low (did not bat). Govier was the main wicket taker with a return of 5-50 from his 19 overs. Tiverton Heathcoat 2nds then scored 139-6. Paul Nott, whop opened the bowling with Charles Low, took 3-29 and the only other bowler to claim wickets was third change Steve Birley (2-28 from 10). Others to bowl were Charles Low (0-27 from 9), Chris Acton (0-21 from 4) and Richard Money (0-25 from five). G Townsend top scored for the visitors with 71, his innings ended by a catch held by Jim Foat, substituting for the injured Roy Nott, off the bowling of Birley.

The 1983 ‘Bradninch CC Cricket Festival Week’ got underway with an August 8^th home meeting with Old Coulsdons. Bradninch batted first and were bowled out for 120 in 42 overs. Colin Bishop (25), Francis Baker (20), Sam Mullick (20) and John Wykes (19), scored the bulk of the runs. A draw was declared with Old Coulsdons closing on 102-9. Paul Nott opened the bowling and returned the pick of the figures with 4-17 from eight overs and there was also a four-wicket haul for second change Charles Low (4-26 from 12). Roger Miles (1-9 from 7) was the other wicket taker.

The following day Wessex Pilgrims were the opposition and again Bradninch batted first, this time posting a score of 162-4. John Freeman top scored with 45 and Mike Foan chipped in with 29 before brothers Chris Acton (23 not out) and Rob Acton (31 not out – hitting four fours and two sixes), put on 53 for the unbroken fifth wicket. Wessex Pilgrims were then bowled out for 79 with only number six bat P Rendell making it into double figures with his knock of 15. Bradninch used no fewer than eight bowlers and they all claimed at least one with the best of the returns being the 2-7 from eight overs sent down by Charles Low. This game also produced a wicket for both John Freeman and Bill Wells.

Witchampton were the third visiting team of the Cricket Festival week and they had opener R Turner, who hit 107, to thank for their final score being 183 all out. Second change bowler John Wyes produced the best of the returns with figures of 4-30 from 7.3 overs while both Paul Nott and Trevor Lloyd bagged a brace of wickets. Derrick Foan (24), Paul Nott (22) and Mike Foan (21) were the main contributors in the Bradninch reply of 142 all out.

Stapleton were the final team to visit for the Festival week and, batting first, Bradninch closed on 167-6 with Bill Wells ending not out on 52 while R Turner, a centurion the day before in Witchampton colours, scored 48 and Jim Foat, batting at number six, had scored 34 off just 27 balls faced before he was out ‘hit wicket’. There were four ‘ducks’ in the home innings with those going to Simon Bailey, Rob Acton, Francis Baker and Colin Bishop. Stapleton won by a single wicket, closing on 170-9. John Wingrove (2-25 from six) and Paul Nott (1-36 from six) opened the bowling but it was second change Jim Foat who took the honours with his return being 5-33 from 9.2 overs.

It was back to Exeter and East Devon League cricket on August 13^th with a trip into Exeter to meet Alphington where Simon Bailey dominated the Bradninch innings hitting a magnificent 121 before being run out after two hours and eight minutes at the crease! The other Bradninch batting efforts were Derrick Foan (8), John McKinnell (0), Jim Foat (1), John Freeman (20), Sam Mullick (15), Paul Nott 6) with Rob Acton (19 not out) and Dave Mitchell (1 not out) at the crease at the close of the innings. The two ‘did not bat’ players were Mike Foan and John Wingrove. Alphington were then bowled out for just 69 thanks to John Wingrove (5-18), Jim Foat (3-20) and Paul Nott (1-12).

The following day saw another league game, this one at home to Countess Wear who batted first and were bowled out for 146. After opening bowlers John Wingrove (2-20 from 12) and Paul Nott (2-19 from 7.2), it was third change Dave Mitchell who took charge with his figures being 5-37 from nine overs. Bradninch then sealed a five wicket win thanks to a 71-ball, 79 minute 66 from Jim Foat, 21 from John Freeman and unbeaten knocks of 26 from John McKinnell and 20 from Paul Nott.

A trip to Filleigh was made on August 20^th and, batting first, Bradninch closed on 172-9 thanks to knocks of 90, from John McKinnell and an unbeaten 51 from number seven bat Rob Acton who hit four fours and two sixes. No one else got into double figures with the other Ninch batters being Simon Bailey (0), Derrick Foan (1), Mike Foan (6), Pete Hardy (0), John Wykes (1), Dave Mitchell (1), Francis Baker (0) and Roger Miles (5 not out). Filleigh were then restricted to 162-8 with the Bradninch bowling returns being Simon Bailey (3-48 from 12), Chris Acton (2-30 from 13), Dave Mitchell (2-38 from 8) and Roger Miles (1-12 from 4).

Axminster were at Bradninch on August 21^st and it was the home side that batted first, being bowled out for 116 in 40.4 overs. Mike Foan, batting at number eight top scored with 29 but the only other double-figure contributions came from Derrick Foan (26) and Simon Bailey (21) – who opened – and number seven bat Paul Nott, who scored 18. The visitors then completed a three-wicket win, closing the game out on 120-7 thanks to a knock of 70 from number three bat A Cross. John Wingrove (3-28 from 13) and Simon Bailey (3-19 from five) were the wicket takers for Bradninch.

Krakatoa were the next side in action at Bradninch and they batted first, being bowled out for 118 thanks to Rob Acton (4-24), Francis Baker (2-20) and single wickets for Simon Steer, Colin Bishop and Keith Walker. Bradninch, despite a knock of 41 from Simon Bailey and a knock of 24 from Chris Acton – no one else got more than the seven scored by Rob Acton – were bowled out for 90.

Cricklade visited on August 27^th and Bradninch batted first, closing on 218-4. Rob Acton, batting at number six, slammed a 38-ball unbeaten 90 – he hit ten 4s and one six while Derrick Foan, batting at number three scored a 65-ball 31. The others to bat for the home side were Simon Bailey (7), Chris Acton (31), John McKinnell (retired hurt with two runs to his name), Colin Bishop (1) and P McClure (1 not out). R Patel claimed three wickets for the visitors and then top scored with 34 in an all out total of 108. Simon Steer (1-25 from seven) and Steve Birley (2-26 from 10) opened the bowling but the eye-catching return was the 4-10 from 6.3 overs sent down by second change Simon Bailey. First change Rob Gitsham (2-21 from 8), was the other home wicket taker.

The final Sunday of August saw Bradninch make the short trip across to Cullompton to contest an Exeter & East Devon League game. Cully batted first and, thanks to an unbeaten 86 from A Parsons and 49 from M Smith, closed on 202-6.  The Bradninch bowling returns were Paul Nott (0-25 from 9), John Wingrove (2-52 from 17), Simon Bailey (2-48 from seven), Jim Foat (1-35 from eight) and Chris Acton (1-31 from 4). Bradninch were then bundled out for just 83 with all three of the Cully bowlers used claiming three wicket hauls. T Bell (3-35), D Retter (3-25) and M Ingersent (3-15) did the damage. Simon Bailey (30), John McKinnell (14) and Martin Boyce (10) were the only batters into double figures on a ‘bad day at the office’ for Bradninch. The other Ninch batting scores were Derrick Foan (4), Jim Foat (0), Mike Foan (0), John Freeman (9), Sam Mullick (4), Paul Nott (4), John Wingrove (0) and Chris Acton (0 not out).

Tuesday, August 39^th saw Old Vigorians visit Bradninch and they batted first, closing on 195-4. Opener P Petherbridge hit an unbeaten 116 while the home bowling returns were Steve Birley (2-38 from seven), Simon Bailey (1-22 from 6) and Chris Acton (1-42 from 12). The others to bowl were Paul Nott (0-32 from eight) and Bill Wells (0-33 from 4). Bradninch were then bowled out for 163 despite knocks of 38, from Rob Acton and 36 from Simon Bailey.

September began with a 4^th of the month home game against Honiton RBL who batted first and were bowled out for 125. Paul Nott took the bowling honours with his return being 4-27 from 11 overs while first change Jim Foat (3-41 from 10), second change Simon Bailey (2-25 from 7) and third change Sam Mullick (1-11 from five) also claimed wickets. Bradninch then sealed a thrilling single wicket win on 127-9 thanks to a 15-run partnership for the unbroken 10^th wicket between last pair Chris Acton (17 not out) and John Freeman (1 not out). Earlier Richard Money had top scored with 24 while openers Derrick Foan and Simon Bailey hit 16 and 15 respectively. Richard Hill took 6-39 for the away side.

Knowle Hill were the next side to visit and they claimed a 63 run win after batting first and scoring 182-9. Paul Freeman and Francis Baker each claimed three wicket hauls for Bradninch who were the bowled out for 119 with the bulk of the runs being scored by opener Simon Bailey who hit 60. Matthew Birley scored 16 and Francis Baker hit 10, but no one else made it into double figures.

Teignmouth were the final opposition of the 1983 campaign and Bradninch batted first scoring 139 with Rob Acton top scoring with 39 while Mike Foan got 30 and Paul Freeman hit an unbeaten 18. The game was drawn as Teignmouth replied with 93-8 with the pick of the Bradninch bowling returns being the 3-11 from Paul Freeman. John McKinnell had the honour of claiming the final wicket of the season.

As a summary of the 1983 campaign………

51 matches were played with 23 wins, 16 losses and 7 draws. 5 matches were abandoned.

The most runs in the season was the 1236 scored by Simon Bailey who played in 42 of the 51 matches. His end of season average was 31.69. One other ‘impressive’ stat from the Bailey season was that his 1236 were no fewer than 20% of the 6,360 runs scored by the team in the 1983 campaign.

Derrick Foan was the ‘best of the rest’ in terms of runs scored with his total of 580 runs from 33 innings and average of 20.00. Other major run scorers in the campaign were Chris Acton (501 runs from 35 innings and an average of 19.26), Rob Acton (432 runs from 29 innings and an average of 18.78), John McKinnell (440 runs from 24 innings with an average of 22.00), Paul Nott (350 runs from 30 innings and an average of 13.46), John Freeman (322 runs from 21 innings and an average of 20.12), Sam Mullick (305 runs from 23 innings and an average of 16.05), Mike Foan (301 runs from 26 innings and an average of 13.08), Jim Foat (208 runs from 10 innings and an average of 23.11).

Others to bat, with their seasons run total in brackets were: Richard Money (133), Francis Baker (122), Phil Tresider (121), Bill Wells (91), John Wykes (64), Chris Bishop (62), Dave Mitchell (73), Gary Newall (51), Roger Miles (42), Trevor Lloyds (31), Paul Freeman (29), Steve Birley (28), Simon Steer (23), Pete Hardy (20), Roy Nott (18), John Wingrove (10),

In terms of the bowling it was Paul Nott who took the most wickets with his count being 56 at an average of 14.69. John Wingrove was the ‘best of the rest’ with 42 wickets and an impressive average of 10.14. Chris Acton claimed 38 wickets with his average being 15.78 and Dave Mitchell claimed 36 wickets at an average of 13.63. Simon Bailey claimed 35 wickets and he, like John Wingrove, had a ten-run average with his figure being 10.85. Other wicket returns for the season were Jim Foat (28 with an average of 9.67), John Wykes (23 at 14.52), Sam Mullick (19 at 11.36), Paul Freeman (18 at 15.94), Del French (15 at 17.73), Roger Miles (12 at 18.91), Steve Birley (11 at 15.81).

Catching………. Players who held 10 or more catches in the season were………………….. Rob Acton (22), Simon Bailey (17), Chris Acton (15), John Freeman (13), Paul Nott (10), Sam Mullick (10).