Tuesday 19th August

Keymer & Hassocks 1st XI completed an impressive double over promotion hopefuls Seaford at Adastra Park on Saturday, in one of their most emphatic run chases of recent seasons. After a week of rain skipper John Price decided to insert the visitors, and it looked to be a the right move as they reduced Seaford to 107 for 5, but a brisk, unbroken sixth wicket stand of 93 between Nick Pink (48 not out) and Tim Goddard (40 not out) helped propelled them to 200 for 5 in their 50 overs. For Keymer there were two wickets apiece for Justin Toussaint and Andy Westgate.

Keymer's run chase was dominated by two key partnerships. Firstly a patient 101 between Tony Chad (48) and Price set the hosts up for a final surge. Then, needing to score at around eight an over off the final 11, an aggressive 93 stand from just 56 balls between Nathan Cooper (44 not out) and Price saw the hosts home with two overs to spare, with Price finishing 100 not out.

Despite a magnificent 112 by Neil Green, the seconds are still without a win, as their last pair survived three balls to avoid defeat in the reverse fixture.

The home side made 236-7 declared from 48 overs, with young paceman Jamie Carter taking 3-32. Spinners Mark Wylam and skipper Joe Isted bowled well for Hassocks, while Wylam was second-top scorer in the rearguard action to deny Seaford a win.

Keymer & Hassocks 3rd XI lost away to Turners Hill by seven wickets in their Stoner League Division Three match. Hassocks chose to bat, posting a respectable 181-8, with Praby Singh top scoring on 69 and Simon Green adding 35. Despite suffering a broken nose after scoring only 1, Rob Bartley went on to make 17 and take a wicket.

In reply, Turners Hill gave few chances, and reached the victory target for the loss of just three wickets, with opener Craig Myers making 104 before falling to a fine catch from young wicketkeeper Jamie Purtell. Wickets were shared between Bartley, George Hutchinson and Charlie Needham, and there was some excellent fielding from Tom Fairfax on his senior league cricket debut.

Sunday saw the annual President's Day match, with Chris Wilson's team beaten by five wickets in the last over. The President's XI posted 215-6 declared, thanks mainly to former KHCC player Jim Browning, who smashed 59.

In reply, Hassocks levelled the scores in the last over, before Sam Dring equalled Browning's tally with a six off President's skipper Bob Faith to win the game with two balls to spare.

In impressive shows of commitment to the day, Ian Moody travelled form Norfolk to score two runs, and Charlie Thomson commuted from Manchester to drop a catch for the President.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Monday 11th August

Weather was the predictable winner at the weekend, with the firsts abandoning their attempted 2020 game at Burgess Hill in the thirteenth over in appalling conditions, while the seconds failed to start and the thirds left for far away Forest Row but didn't start.

This weekend the weather will of course be blazing sunshine for our President's Day fixture on Sunday (11.30am), which seees old friends of the club take on KHCC in Chris Wilson's XI - both on the field and socially. As usual, all are welcome for the day.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Tuesday 5th August

A Sussex League free week meant Keymer & Hassocks 3rd XI took centre stage, drawing at home to Crawley Down 2nd XI in a Stoner League division 3 match on Saturday. Down made 220-7 after being put in bat, with opener Jim Hewitt top scoring on 87 not out.

For the hosts, Jamie Carter took two early wickets and Mark Wylam a further two late on, but the need to dry the ball constantly in the damp conditions ate into the time available, leaving only 2 hours 10 minutes for the second innings.

KHCC lost early wickets but steady scoring from Alex Brakell (46) and Praby Singh (54 not out) saw the hosts finish on 134-7, as Hewitt also starred with the ball, taking 4-17.

Sunday's match at Preston Nomads was abandoned with the home side 39 without loss in reply to KHCC's 226-5 (Mike Johnson 52, Jo Barnes-Gratton 61 not out).

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Thursday 31st July

The first team continue to be competitive in Division Three, picking up more wins in their debut season at this level. The seconds are playing good cricket in patches, but have yet to put together all parts of the game. We should have won against Uckfield (drew) and Crawley (lost) recently, but a win is definitely within our capabilities. The thirds continue to perform well, thanks to a good blend of youth and experience.

The Norfolk tour departs Bank Holiday weekend, with three fixtures, including a clash against Ian Moody's club. I look forward to hearing tales and seeing pictures as per last year!

Grimmers has had to take a step back from his square work. I would like to thank everybody who has stepped in to ensure we are still able to produce pitches for all our matches. The committee is examining options as to how we resolve this issue in the medium and longer terms.

I would also like to say a personal thank you to all who played, umpired, scored or helped in any way in Cricket Week. As midweek match manager, the high availability made my job mainly one of picking teams rather than getting guests in. That says to me that the week is becoming a highlight of our season and part of our culture. Two wins and a defeat was the story on the field, but there is much more to Cricket Week than that: the Race Night, food and bar takings were also excellent, as was the general atmosphere around the place for those few days.

The Golf Day was also a success, with Joe Isted triumphing (again). Must have a word with the handicapping committee........

Nothing formal to report on the pavilion project. I am due to meet with the Parish Council soon to discuss responses from architects, and will keep everyone posted as usual.

July's 100 Club result has been deferred while we await the last few renewal cheques, and will be announced as soon as possible. If you are wishing to renew or join, please get your payment in as soon as possible.

President's Day is in my opinion the highlight of the season and is on Sunday 17th August, with the game starting at 11.30am. There will be the usual mix of old friends of the club visiting us for the day, an excellent lunch (and tea if you can face it!) and good fun in the bar. Please come for some or all of the day even if you are not playing. Roger is also running the £100 prize sweepstake, so please get your £10 in (shared entry available) for a ticket corresponding to runs scored/wickets taken etc on the day to give the game some extra spice and raise £200 for the club.

Junior Cricket Festival season is upon us in August, so please give our youngsters some support, or perhaps umpire an innings if you can.

See you on the pitch or in the bar soon.

H

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Tuesday 29th July

Keymer & Hassocks I enjoyed a 5-wicket victory away at Crawley on Saturday, recording their third win of the season. On a lively wicket Keymer's openers made early inroads, reducing their hosts to 18 for 4.

Crawley managed to recover some pride in the middle order, but 4 for 43 from Mike Poole, 3 for 25 from Mike Johnson, and a spell of 1 for 13 from 11 overs from Justin Toussaint restricted the hosts to 120 all out. Nick Campion claimed the other 2 wickets to fall.

In reply a patient third wicket stand of 58 between John Price (24) and Johnson (39) helped Keymer reach the 121 needed, despite the loss of some late wickets.

Even the Proms in the Park at Adastra couldn't inspire the seconds in their quest to register their first league win of the season as they again came out second best in a tightly fought encounter against Crawley. On a difficult wicket Keymer were asked to bat first, and only Neil Green, who produced a sparkling innings of 77, came to terms with the inconsistent bounce as the home side were bowled out for 156 in the 45th over. Crawley faltered in their early overs, falling to 27-4 against good bowling from Green and Andy Dixon, but despite wickets continuing to fall regularly, larger partnerships were built. At 105-5 Crawley looked comfortable winners but the Keymer attack again pegged them back to 135-9. However Crawley skipper Riaz kept his cool to lead his side home by one wicket with an undefeated 59.

Keymer & Hassocks 3rd XI won an exciting Stoner League division 3 match against Palmers 2nd XI at Hurstpierpoint College. The visitors made 190-8 after being inserted, with Tom Scotcher top scoring on 37 not out. For the hosts, Jamie Carter, Nigel Hartley & Charlie Needham, all returned identical figures of 2-34, while there were excellent catches taken by Alex Spinks, David Pithie and Needham. In reply, openers Pithie (39) Roland Molyneux (34) again made an excellent start, putting on 76. Although wickets fell steadily after that, Carter (16 not out) and Needham (10 not out) saw KHCC home by three wickets with 13 balls to spare.

Keymer and Hassocks lost out by 74 runs at Ansty on Sunday in a 40-over game. On a great wicket the hosts won the toss and batted, condemning the visitors to chasing leather for the hottest part of the afternoon and amassing 263-6 in their overs. Hassocks then got off to a great start reaching 48 after six overs but Ansty slowed the rate down after the loss of Green (38) and Keymer couldn't manage an assualt on the total, reaching just 189-4 at close with Rob Bartley top scoring with 49 not out.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Tuesday 22nd July

Keymer and Hassocks enjoyed the better of a draw at home to Uckfield Anderida after making 206 for 8 declared having recovered from 106 for 7. Michael John son made 80 not out as Mike Cullington took 5 for 50 including four wickets in one over ! In the Uckfield reply of 162 for 7 Luke Forster made 71 as Nick Campion took 4 for 41.

The seconds just failed to grasp their first victory of the season after a tremendous game at Uckfield. Despite winning the toss and inserting, only one wicket fell in the first 20 overs, courtesy of the first of two excellent gully catches from Joe Isted. From that point on no partnership reached more than 26 as wickets fell consistently, mainly to George Hutchinson (3-67), Andy Dixon (2-65) and Isted, who cleaned up the tail with 3-11 to dismiss Uckfield for 217. The reply started positively with a partnership of 64 between Howard Collins (55) and Jamie Tatford, but at 120-4 it looked like being a struggle. However, George Christmas, with a maiden league fifty (53), and Isted, continuing his recent good form with 33, took Keymer to the brink of victory before some good seam bowling left them needing two off the last ball. This proved too much as a run out occurred chasing the winning runs, leaving Keymer stranded on 216-9 The third XI won an exciting Stoner League division 3 match against Ansty thirds at Whiteman’s Green. Keymer & Hassocks made 206-5 after losing the toss. Roland Molyneux (54) and David Pithie (46) made an excellent start, putting on 119 for the first wicket, followed by some hard hitting from Praby Singh (41) and Simon Green (28).

In reply, after losing one early wicket, Ansty made steady progress with 33 from Jack Palter, 47 from James Smeethurst and 39 from James Whybrow. However, the middle order couldn’t build on this start and with skipper Nigel Hartley taking 3-45 it fell to under-16 spinner James Griffin to complete an excellent spell of 4-47 by taking the final wicket with the last ball of the game as Ansty fell 30 runs short at 176.

It was a low scoring contest with runs at a premium as Keymer and Hassocks edged out Felbridge at Adastra Park on Sunday. Keymer won the toss and chose to bat but wickets fell at regular intervals due to some excellent slow left arm bowling. With a top score of 16 no batsmen was able to get in and make a score as Keymer were bowled out for just 106.

It was important that Keymer took early wickets to have a chance of victory and this was provided by Neil Green (3-13). With 86 still needed and six wickets in hand, Felbridge were favourites, but the hosts managed to take the remaining wickets to win by 12 runs with some good tight bowling from George Duplock (2-2) and Andy Westgate (3-30). Keymer and Hassocks’ annual Cricket Week provided two wins and a defeat. Things did not go well on Wednesday against Brighton Nomads, who rattled up 236 before declaring and dismissing their hosts for just 130. Thursday saw an entertaining game against Ditchling, who failed by 20 runs to overhaul Hassocks’ 176-6 declared (Roland Molyneux 54). Following Friday’s Golf Day, won by Joe Isted, KHCC enjoyed a good win on Monday against touring side London Colney.

In a 45 over contest the visitors batted first and made 192 all out with wickets from Justin Toussaint (3-44) and Michael Johnson (3-34). In reply the KHCC got off to a flying start with 43 from Neil Green but then lost wickets and had to consolidate, as Nick Campion (39) and Simon Green (43 not out) kept the score moving steadily to allow Keymer to reach the victory target with three overs and six wickets to spare.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Tuesday 15th July

A young Keymer & Hassocks side, without some key batsmen, hung on for a hard-fought draw on Saturday at Hellingly. Keymer started well, reducing their hosts to 50 for 4 before a solid 121 partnership helped Hellingly to a formidable 222 all out in just 44 overs. Young Mike Poole was the highlight for Keymer, returning his best first team figures of 7 for 67.

In reply, a positive batting display gave Keymer hope, until they lost John Price for 84 with 18 overs left and 73 runs needed. Wickets then fell at regular intervals, until a solid last wicket stand saw Poole and Justin Toussaint bat out the last seven overs to draw the game, with Keymer closing on 169 for 9.

A weakened second team put up a fighting display with the ball after failing with the bat at home to Hellingly on Saturday. After being inserted, Keymer struggled to 115 all out with only Joe Isted (24) and Howard Collins (22) contributing.

After tea, a different home side emerged and made Hellingly fight for every run. Five wickets were taken as the visitors took 43 overs to get the runs, but the low total was always going to restrict any chance of victory.

The thirds lost to division leaders Cowfold & Lower Beeding by eight wickets in a Stoner League division 3 match at Hurst College. Fielding a young side with four players from the youth section, Keymer & Hassocks made a respectable 161 after winning the toss and batting. Following a steady start from openers Roland Molyneux (20) and Rob Bartley (13), Hassocks slumped to 48-6.

Paul Dixon then turned the innings around with a fluent 75, helped by tail enders Charlie Needham (18) and Nigel Hartley (16). In reply, the Keymer bowlers were unlucky to only generate sharp chances, with Bartley and George Duplock being the only wicket takers as Cowfold reached victory for the loss of just two wickets.

Keymer and Hassocks defeated Southwater on Sunday at Adastra Park by 67 runs. The home side won the toss and batted, reaching 209-3 declared, with most of the runs coming from excellent innings by Nick Campion (87), Simon Green (66 not out) and Jamie Frankham-Eade (24 not out).

Southwater were denied a chance of victory due to the loss of early wickets as they were reduced to 48-6 thanks to John Grimley (2-7), Justin Toussaint (2-32) and Neil Green (4-59), before being bowled out for 142.

Dads & Lads

The last scheduled Dads & Lads game for this season saw Keymer edge out St Peter's in a high-scoring encounter where the advantage changed throughout the contest. Bowling first, Keymer started strongly, restricting St Peter's in the early overs. Luke Miller led the way, taking 2-42, supported well by Jack Pettett (1-25) and George Duplock (1-47) who bowled with no luck. St Peter’s responded well to the challenge and scored heavily to the short boundaries in the middle overs, eventually totalling 240-6. Keymer began the chase well, with father and son Paul & George Duplock posting an opening stand of 62 - Paul departing for 32 and George showing great concentration to post a personal best of 39.

Ben Roberts joined the fray at 80-3 and proceeded to bat through the remainder of the innings for a maiden 50, showing good shot selection and great powers of stamina for one so young. Wickets fell at the other end reasonably regularly until the score reached 161-8 with 10 overs remaining and Justin Morris joined Roberts at the crease.

With seven fours and three sixes, Morris ensured that Keymer got home by two wickets with three balls remaining, scoring 52 not out and completing an unbeaten partnership of 80 with Roberts.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Tuesday 8th July

Keymer and Hassocks remain in fifth place in County League Division Three, despite being unable to force a home win against local rivals Lindfield, who held on at 192 for 8 facing the hosts’ total of 214 for 6 declared, of which Mike Johnson made 77. For Lindfield, top scorer was Kevin Chamberlain with 55, with Nick Campion’s 5 for 78 in vain.

The struggling seconds again came out on the wrong end of a high scoring game at Lindfield Common on Saturday. After being asked to bat first, Keymer put the setback of two early wickets behind them to post 238-6, as James Barnes scored a season’s best 80 and shared a partnership of 134 with Chris Johnson who made 55. A flourish in the last 10 overs was led by a glorious cameo innings from Joe Isted, scoring 40 including 18 in an over. Lindfield were positive in their reponse throughout despite needing over five an over from the outset. Keymer’s bowlers found it difficult to stem the flow of runs on what was still a great batting track and fast outfield, and three half chances went to ground from opener Malcolm Page (96 not out) who batted through the innings to take the hosts to a six wicket victory with three balls to spare

Keymer & Hassocks 3rd XI lost to Roffey 4th XI by 61 runs in a Stoner League Division Three match. After being inserted and losing a couple of early wickets, Roffey scored steadily and declared on 190-6, with skipper Nigel Hartley grabbing 3-28 for the home side.

In reply, Hassocks were soon in trouble as none of their top five batsmen got into double figures. George Christmas gave the home side some hope with a knock of 49, and number 11 George Hutchinson added some respectability with a flamboyant 25 not out as Keymer & Hassocks fell for 129 all out.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Tuesday 1st July

Keymer suffered a second successive defeat on Saturday away to promotion chasing local rivals Ansty. Batting first, Keymer struggled to take advantage of favourable conditions and largely had Nick Campion (57) to thank for their total of 172 for 9, with Ansty skipper Shaun Janman returning figures of 6 for 64.

In reply Ansty rarely looked in trouble, as they reached their target for the loss of just four wickets.

The 2nd XI posted their highest score of the season against Ansty on Saturday, but couldn't force victory. After winning the toss, Keymer racked up a massive 243-7 in 48 overs. Runs were shared around the middle order - Ross Watkins (63) and Sid Barnes (32) shared a partnership of 79 before both departed in a short space of time. The mantle was then taken up by Neil Green, with a better than a run a ball 60, and Joe Isted (34*). Ansty started well, putting together a number of partnerships while keeping at or around the run rate. However, when two wickets fell at 128, they shut up shop despite there being 16 overs yet to be bowled and still five wickets remaining. Despite the best efforts of the Keymer slow bowlers virtually no aggressive shots were played in the last hour of the game, leading to a dull close at 178-6.

The 3rd XI also played out a high scoring draw against Edenbridge 2 in a Stoner League Division 3 match . The hosts' decision to bat paid dividends as opener David Putman carried his bat for a massive 203 not out, enabling them to declare on 281-5 after just 35 overs. There were two wickets each for George Christmas and George Hutchinson and a debut league wicket for young seamer Matt Dibdin. In reply, Keymer & Hassocks made steady progress, with young David Chad top-scoring with 72 and Praby Singh making 63, but were never able to keep up with the with run rate, finishing on 230-7. Putman also shone with the ball for Edenbridge, picking up 3-44.

Keymer and Hassocks were on the wrong end of a dramatic one wicket defeat to Henfield at Adastra Park on Sunday. The home side racked up a formidable 208-8 declared at tea thanks to 114 not out from Neil Green and several decent supporting innings, in particular a well-played 17 from youngster Ben Roberts.

After tea Hassocks took two early wickets to leave Henfield in trouble, but Henfield were able to rebuild for a push at the total. With the score on 100-3 Keymer then fought back with five wickets for just seven runs, with good spells from Luke Miller (1-12) and Alex Vannon (2-13), to leave Henfield in real trouble on 107-8.

A ninth wicket partnership of 73 then kept them right in the game with all four results still a possibility with six overs to go and 37 still needed. In a tense final over 10 were required with one wicket in hand, and Henfield completed a remarkable victory in a topsy turvy game with a four off the penultimate ball of the match.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Friday 27th June

As I look at my notes for this update, I think it will be the longest yet (but as sparkling and entertaining as ever!). I take this as a sign of a thriving club, both on and off the field.

The 1st XI have recorded the club's first ever County League victories - congratulations to them. The 2nds are yet to break their duck, but have had winning opportunities in some games, which we need to convert. The thirds are also performing well, and could be set for a high finish this season. Disappointingly, Burgess Hill knocked us out of the 20/20 competition at the group stage.

We have purchased the new net facility, which has wheels and is far more user-friendly than the old one. This means that people can now have nets at their convenience, which I believe has happened on a few occasions already.

I am particularly pleased with availability for Cricket Week (16-21 July), with decisions needing to be made on who will play on more than one day, rather than a bare 11 and crossed fingers that no-one drops out. It seems to me that people feel it is now an established part of KHCC culture. With three weeks still to go, there is still time to sign up, as there may be drop outs, so don't feel the door is closed.

After the Ditchling game on the Thursday of Cricket Week we will be hosting a Race Night in the pavilion (regardless of the weather or the game taking place). Please support this event. Who knows? You may break even on your beer money, or even make a profit! Friends and family welcome.

The Friday of Cricket Week is in fact the golf day. Please support this if you can, by signing up through John Price or Ross Watkins.

Roger is again running the President's Day sweepstake. £10 will get you a ticket corresponding to a particular aspect of the game (total runs, wickets etc), with a top prize of £100. The club will make £200, with a prize fund to match - a win-win situation, I'm sure you would agree.

Hewi has worked hard on getting us Community Amateur Sports Club status, which has various financial advantages for the club. However, we have to re-word our rules slightly to comply, so will be requesting members attend a Special General Meeting soon. This is planned be held on a Saturday evening, so as many members as possible can attend after their match that day. It should only take a few minutes of your time, so please attend if at all possible.

The vast majority of playing members have paid annual subs, which is pleasing. If you are one of the few who hasn't, please do get it in to us, so we don't have to invoke the non-selection procedure we now have available to us.

The Primary Club collection box on the bar is being well supported. Thank you to all who have put a few coppers or silver in there - it makes a huge difference to the worthy cause of helping blind people play sport. Please continue to support it.

The pavilion project is gathering pace: The Parish Council now has a dedicated sub-committee (which I am part of), rather than tagging along under another committee. This sends a strong signal that they are taking it seriously, and they have now invited architects to tender for the project as a whole. We met one of them last week, and it was exciting to hear a professional talking about her vision of how a new building might look. As ever, there is still much to be done - but rest assured that I will be pushing the PC as hard as I can to bring the project to completion as soon as possible, and I do believe that they are now as committed to the project as we are.

June's 100 Club winner is Martine Faith. (£53 for £2 a month - it's got to be worth joining!)

See you on the field/in the bar soon.

Cheers

H

General Committee Chairman.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Thursday 26th June

Friday 18th July 2008

Bacon Rolls / Coffee / 18 holes (Hassocks Golf Club) £25 per head

followed by......

2-Course Meal (Thatched Inn) - £25 per head

Prizes to be won!

To book golf, meal or both,

Contact: John Price

07779 242449

john.price@holidays.ba.com

Coffee and Bacon Rolls from 12.30pm

1st tee off at 1.26pm

Dinner 7.30pm for 8.00pm

Report: Justin Toussaint (webmaster)

Tuesday 24th June

Keymer & Hassocks 1st XI fell short against top of the table Glynde on Saturday, losing by 65 runs having let a golden opportunity slip through their fingers.

On a lively early wicket, Keymer were in control when they reduced their free-scoring visitors to 78 for 6, but a seventh wicket stand of 103 helped Glynde to a more than respectable 188 for 9 off their 50 overs. Mike Poole, with 4-51, and 3-44 from Michael Johnson were the key wicket takers.

In reply Keymer were always up with the run rate, but wickets fell at regular intervals as they were dismissed for a disappointing 123, and only a hard hitting 38 from Nathan Cooper kept them from further embarrassment.

Keymer seconds put in a good display despite eventually losing at runaway league leaders Glynde. Winning the toss and batting first sent a positive message to their confident opponents, and contributions came all through the order. John Poole gave the innings substance, opening up with 46, and then a rapid partnership of 84 between Mark Wylam (posting his second successive 50) and Howard Collins (36*) led to a total of 219-7 at tea. The hosts started with a blaze of shots and reached 60 in the 10th over before the first wicket fell. After that they put in a workmanlike performance, building persistent partnerships in damp, drizzly conditions to reach their target of 220-5. Chief Keymer wicket taker was Andy Dixon, returning after holiday and injury, picking up 4-47 from eight overs. The 3rd XI lost at Staplefield in a friendly after the home side won the toss and chose to field. After a good start, in which David Pithie scored 42 and Praby Singh 34, Keymer & Hassocks slid from 81-1 to 123 all out. In reply, despite a couple of early wickets for George Christmas, the hosts made a rapid start and reached the winning post in the 16th over for the loss of 5 wickets – the remaining scalps being shared by James Griffin, George Hutchinson and Rob Bartley.

Keymer and Hassocks won by nine wickets on Sunday at Ditchling, where the hosts won the toss on a good-paced track and made a solid start, reaching 75-2. A flurry of wickets then saw them fall to 115-7 before eventually reaching 143 all out - the main beneficiaries being John Grimley (3-15) and Andrew Westgate (4-6). In reply, Keymer ensured victory thanks to an opening stand of 114 before Roly Molyneux departed for 39 as Neil Green top scored with 87 not out.

Keymer were again outplayed by Portslade in the Dads & Lads fixture on Sunday after losing the return fixture earlier in the season. Portslade opted to bat first and Keymer generally bowled well to restrict them to 169-9. Will Upton (2-25) and Ben Roberts (2-39) were the pick of the attack, while 11-year-old Dan Panico picked up a wicket in his first game in this form of cricket and Jack Pettett claimed three good catches in the outfield. It was again the batting display that let Keymer down. Despite the best efforts of Ben Roberts, who capped an excellent all round display with a battling 27, Keymer were rushed out for 98, helped by a hat trick from Fedddie Fiveash.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Tuesday 17th June

Keymer and Hassocks outplayed their high-flying hosts Seaford on Saturday, claiming a surprising 68 run victory in blustery conditions.

Batting first, 17-year old Nathan Cooper made 71 in a total of 228 for 8, and was well supported by Tony Chad (43), Michael Johnson (36) and Nick Campion (26).

Second placed Seaford were then bowled out for 160 despite being well placed at 145 for 3. 82 from Jacob Thompson was the highlight of their innings, but 6 for 43 from Campion and 3 for 26 from Johnson destroyed Seaford’s middle order and tail, with the last seven wickets falling for just 15 runs.

The 2nd XI suffered a disappointing defeat at home to Seaford after posting a challenging total of 181-7.

A solid opening stand of 46 from John Poole (22) and Sid Barnes (21) laid the foundations but wickets in the middle order fell around Ross Watkins who made a very patient 25. At 109-5 Keymer looked in trouble but the lower order were again up to the challenge, as Mark Wylam (51) and Alex Brakell (23*) put on 72 for the 7th wicket to ensure eight batting points. The game was lost in the first hour of the Seaford innings as positive batting and poor bowling gave Seaford a flier. At 73-0 off 12 overs the writing was on the wall, but the ageless John Grimley turned in a magnificant display to take 4-46 from another 15 over stint. The run rate increased but a number of half chances were not taken and skipper Tim Goddard guided his team home with two overs to spare

Keymer & Hassocks 3rd XI beat Burgess Hill 3rd XI by seven runs in an exciting Stoner League Division 3 derby. Hill won the toss and chose to field, and KHCC declared at 153-7, with opening batsman David Pithie carrying his bat for 54 not out, helped by 32 from Jamie Purtell and 17 from David Chad.

In reply, Burgess Hill started brightly, but once again young off-spinner James Griffin turned the match in KHCC's favour, taking 5-21 including the final wicket as Burgess Hill fell just short at 146 all out. The remaining wickets were shared between Rob Bartley (3) and Nigel Hartley (2).

The Sunday fixture at Preston Nomads saw a defeat for KHCC, who could only post 126, thanks to Ross Watkins's 35. The hosts then made sure of the win for the loss of six wickets.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Thursday 12th June

The 1st XI held on for a draw Saturday in the local derby clash with Burgess Hill.

Batting first, Burgess Hill reached 217 for 7 from 48 overs before declaring, with Justin Estriech (72) and Jack Simpson (65) the main contributors. For Keymer, three wickets for Chris Johnson was the main highlight in an otherwise tough afternoon in the field.

In response, Keymer got off to a positive start, before losing John Price for 23 in the sixth over, with the score on 39. From there it was Hill's afternoon, taking wickets at regular intervals, with Marcus Barlow claiming three and Ian Plummer four. It was only the resilience of opener Tony Chad, who batted through the innings for a dogged 41, that saved the hosts blushes as they ended on 108 for 9.

The 2nd XI got the better of a draw at Burgess Hill in terms of points scored but probably not in their chances of winning the game.

Burgess Hill opted to bat first and the Keymer attack responded generally well in restricting the home side to 154 all out in their allotted overs. Mark Wylam (3-34) and John Grimley (2-39) both bowled 15 over spells keeping things very tight and Jamie Carter tidied up the tail in quick time.

At 61-1 after 18 overs Keymer looked firm favourites but a miserly spell from left arm slow bowler Nick Brailey put the brakes on and wickets fell regularly as the run rate kept rising. Roland Molyneux and Jamie Carter eventually negotiated the last four overs to secure a draw.

On Sunday a young Keymer and Hassocks XI took on an even younger Horsham Trinity XI at Adastra Park. Batting first Neil Green top scored with 126 as Keymer were eventually bowled out for 199.

After an opening spell from Charlie Needham and John Grimley had reduced Horsham Trinity to 10 for 3, they almost managed to hang on for a draw but eventually were all out for 105 with three balls to go. The pick of the bowlers was young Alex Vannon with 4 for 9 off eight overs.

Highlights of the game included pepperami sandwiches at tea becuase the skipper had a shocker and brought an empty loaf and Treacle replacing Neil 'keeping and then having to change again because he was needed to bowl!!!!!

Report: Justin Toussaint

Tuesday 3rd June

Keymer and Hassocks history was made on Saturday, as the first team picked up their first ever win at County League level away to Chiddingly. Michael Poole took 5-29 and Neil Green two wickets as Keymer put themselves in the box seat by dismissing Chiddingly for 133.

They completed their maiden victory by making short work of the target as Joe Barnes-Gratton hit 70 not out and Adrian Tatford 34 not out to see them home.

In the reverse fixture, Chiddingly 2nd XI's last pair denied Keymer the double by surviving the last three overs of a tightly-fought encounter.

After Keymer were asked to bat first they struggled to 87 - 7 after 35 overs, but the tail wagged magnificently to post a final total of 162-9. Young Alex Spinks took the attack to the Chiddingly bowlers and scored a brisk 29 before last wicket pair John Grimley and Jamie Carter had an unbroken stand of 33 in the final overs. Carter then picked up two early wickets, helped by a stunning slip catch from Joe Isted, which set the tone for an excellent display in the field. Chidingly rebuilt solidly and at 86-3 looked sure fire winners but Keymer's spinners Mark Wylam (3-37) and Isted (2-7 from 8 overs) strangled the scoring and took regular wickets until Carter had a final blast at the tail, finishing with the impressive figures of 3-30 as Chiddingly closed well short on 124-9.

The Sunday fixture versus Moulsecoombe and District ended early with a crushing victory for Keymer and Hassocks, who successfully chased a very small total of 52, with Tony Coleman grabbing 5-10 and young George Duplock 3-15. Neil Green’s 47 then enabled Hassocks to win inside eight overs.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Tuesday 27th May

Keymer and Hassocks lost at home to Crawley after being inserted and posting a declared score of 190-3 from 49 overs. The visitors then timed their run chase to perfection, finishing on 191-6 in the last over, despite a late flurry of wickets.

The seconds crashed to a disappointing defeat at Crawley despite posting their highest total of the season so far. After winning the toss, skipper Ross Watkins led the way with 54, ably supported by Joe Isted (29 not out) and Howard Collins (26). A total of 175-7 was par for the conditions and a close game would have been expected. Crawley had other ideas, and came out with all guns blazing. Early wickets for Alex Brakell (3-30) did nothing to change the pace of the innings and with 10 overs to spare Crawley reached the target with 5 wickets still intact.

In a Sally Miller Trophy match played on Sunday, KHCC 3rd XI lost to St James by 115 runs. St James won the toss and chose to bat, amassing 217-6 in their 40 overs, mainly due to 136 not out from Matt Ades, while skipper Nigel Hartley took 4-18 for KHCC. In reply, KHCC were all out for 102, with Alex Spinks top scoring on 23, while the wickets were shared among the St James bowlers.

The Sunday XI emerged victorious against Ifield on Sunday, winning by one wicket. Keymer won the toss end elected to field as Ifield got away to a flying start, reaching 142-2 after just 27 overs before some good bowling brought the Ifield innings to an end on 188 with Luke Miller and Brad Panico both taking 1-18. In reply the Keymer innings got off to a disastrous start and victory looked unlikey at 39-4. However an excellent partnership between Neil Green (81) and Lawrence Hannam (35) got Keymer right back in it. With Green departing at 132-5 Ifield again looked favourites but some brilliant batting by youngster Jack Pettett (13) kept Keymer in the run chase. Hannam was then out with 18 still needed but the tail held strong to see Keymer home by one wicket in a tense finale.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Wednesday 21st May

While still searching for our first Sussex League win, the club has put in some excellent performances, with the first team still unbeaten. The club can be particularly proud of putting out 33 players on 10th May, when late drop outs meant the sides were being finalised at midday. Thanks to all who helped out by being flexible.

The purchase of the new net is imminent. We may need volunteers to help set it up for the first time. Please speak to me or Ian Poole if you would like to help.

Please ensure you have paid your annual subscription as soon as possible. Late payment means a higher amount and the risk of non-selection. The club needs all the finance it can get, and £30 is still an extremely competitive amount in the area.

It is likely that the Clubman of the Year trophy, awarded at the presentation event each autumn, will be named after Richard Bostel as his memorial from KHCC.

New 100 club members will be in the draws from July onwards, so please get your £24 to Mick Bateup by end of June. Current members of the scheme should also renew in June. Just £2 a month for a good cash prize. Ask Reg Renaut - he won in April and May! I blame the nameless committee members who make the draws.

See you all soon,

Howard Collins, Committee Chairman.

Report: Howard Collins (Committee Chairman)

Tuesday 20th May

A Saturday league washout meant all the KHCC action was focused on Sunday's fixtures, with a draw at Beeding and Bramber and a defeat for the Dads and Lads XI at home to Henfield.

The uncut outfield at Bramber, together with a game-ending injury to the hosts' opening bowler during his run-up to deliver the first ball of the match, gave a farcical air to early proceedings, but the match soon settled down, with Neil Green smashing 92, supported by brother Simon with 23, skipper Andy Westgate (34) and Howard Collins's 25, as KHCC declared on 195-5 .

Bramber's innings was similarly dominated by Pete Smith, who bludgeoned 87 after being dropped twice, and it looked as if the home side would canter to victory, with 20 needed from the last six overs. However, with five then needed from the last six balls, with five wickets intact, John Grimley stepped up to concede just three runs to ensure an unlikely draw.

The Dads & Lads fell just short of victory at home to Henfield in a game they should have won comfortably. The visitors batted first and were restricted to 115 - 7 by some excellent bowling from the Keymer youngsters. Wickets were shared around but mention should be made of Alex Vannan who bowled exceptionally well on his debut without luck.

The Keymer reply was progressing nicely at 73-2 but the rest of the team collapsed to be dismissed for 103. Only openers Brad Panico and Paul Duplock showed any permanence at the crease, as a winning position was thrown away.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Tuesday 13th May

Late drop outs meant Keymer and Hassocks struggled to put out three competitive sides on Saturday, with various juniors being drafted in at the last minute, and performing well in the circumstances.

The game at Adastra Park ended in a draw after Hellingly had amassed 250 for 3 declared, with former Hastings man Johns Snashall hitting 110 not out against a makeshift attack. In reply Keymer and Hassocks made 160 for 8, with Joe Barnes-Gratton compiling a fine 61, as the visitors could not make their superiority count.

In the reverse second team fixture, a young Hassocks side were well beaten after they could only make 135 all out, as only John Poole (44), Howard Collins (19) and 13 year old Jamie Purtell, with 17, offered any resistance. The hosts then eased to victory on 136-2, with both wickets falling to Andy Dixon.

In Stoner League Division Three, a KHCC 3rd XI fielding six youth team players lost to St Andrews Bears by 73 runs. KHCC won the toss and chose to field, and after a slow start Bears declared on 192 for 9. Pick of the KHCC bowling was again promising young off spinner James Griffin with 4-67. In reply, KHCC made a steady start but fell away in the middle order and were all out for 119, with David Pithie top scoring on 29, helped by 24 from David Chad.

Sunday's fixture saw Keymer's Dads & Lads XI make their first appearance of the season at Portslade, suffering a resounding 90-run defeat in a 40 over game. After losing the toss and being forced to field in the blazing sun, Keymer found it difficult to restrict the hosts, who eventually totalled 221 all out off the last ball of the innings. Pick of the Hassocks bowlers was Matt Dibden, who showed control to claim 4-26 from his eight overs. Keymer lost wickets at regular intervals in their reply, as only Jamie Purtell, with his second good knock of the weekend, looked solid in reaching 31. At 63-9 a humiliating defeat looked on the cards, but a last wicket partnership of 68 between young Adam Wickens, who played some nice shots in his 15 not out, and last man Ross Watkins, who slogged his way horribly to 46, restored a measure respectability.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Tuesday 6th May

It was league draws and a Sunday victory for KHCC this weekend.

Keymer & Hassocks started their inauguaral County League Division Three season with a well-earned draw at old rivals Lindfield.

Batting first, the hosts struggled with the slow wicket against some tight Keymer bowling, before a profitable final 10 overs saw them reach 184 for just three wickets.

Keymer then looked set for victory at 117 for 3, but wickets then fell at regular intervals and they ended 24 runs short with one wicket left. Tony Chad (30), Jo Barnes-Gratton (43) and Neil Green (34) were the main contributors.

The seconds earned a draw at home to Lindfield in their opener. Keymer won the toss and inserted the opposition on a damp wicket, and Lindfield found things difficult early on against John Grimley (3-19), Andy Dixon (2-23) and Jamie Carter (1-36). However, Malcolm Page (56) and a wagging tail saw Lindfield to 153-9 off their allotted 50 overs. Keymer started their response in the worst possible way losing wicket in the first over, but skipper Ross Watkins took an aggressive stance in reaching 33 before being dismissed by Mike Newcombe (4-27). Laurence Hannam took up the charge with an excellent 40, but the run rate was ever climbing on what was still a difficult scoring pitch, and once he was dismissed the Keymer innings closed 26 runs short on 127-8

In a Stoner League Division Three match , the thirds came close to victory over Cuckfield fourths, but had to settle for a frustrating draw with one Cuckfield wicket left. Keymer lost the toss and were put in to bat, with 74 from Prabby Singh, support from David Pithie (20) and Jamie Purtell (19), while Alan Piolet took 5-45 in their total of 174. In reply, Cuckfield were soon in trouble as skipper Nigel Hartley took 4-20 in 12 overs. However, the KHCC attack was unable to dislodge opener Charles Dunnett who carried his bat for 49 not out as Cuckfield finished on 106-9, with young off spinner James Griffin taking 2-29.

The Sunday XI recorded their first victory of the season with a win at home over Steyning. The visitors were put into bat and wickets fell regularly as they were bowled out for 130, with Neil Green (5 for 20) and Alex Brakell (3-29) doing most of the damage. In reply, John Poole (36) helped put on 73 for the first wicket to create a solid foundation for Neil Green hit a quick fire 40* and secure the win in the final over.

Report: Howard Collins (Press Secretary)

Thursday 1st May

Youngsters performed well for Keymer and Hassocks on Saturday, with contributions in each of the three games, offering encouragement ahead of the opening league fixtures.

The first team friendly at East Preston ended in a draw. Batting first, Hassocks made a solid start, but it was the third wicket partnership between Tony Chad (51) and Nathan Cooper (94 no) that shaped the innings of 223 - 4.

Wickets were shared around, with two for Rob Bartley and one apiece for Mike Poole, Neil Green, Andy Westgate and Alex Brakell, as East Preston finished 57 runs short of their target for the loss of six wickets.

The 2nd XI started their season with a home friendly defeat against Portslade. On a wet wicket Keymer were asked to bat first and slumped to 88 all out, with only opener Joe Isted coming to terms with the conditions and making 35. Portslade’s bowlers were led by skipper Lisher who took 4-13 from his eight overs. In reply Hassocks made the perfect start, Jamie Carter taking a wicket with the first ball of the innings, but after that point Portslade built steadily towards 79-5 and looked comfortable, but quick wickets from Andy Dixon (3-10) and 13 year old Matt Dibden (2-4) brought the game to a knife edge, with one wicket left and five runs wanted. Portslade did just enough to secure victory, as three difficult chances went begging.

The thirds won a similarly close-fought game against Uckfield Anderida thirds by one wicket. Pick of the Hassocks bowlers was young off spinner James Griffin, with 3-59, helped by Chris Brakell with 2-6, and under 14 players George Duplock and Luke Miller got their first wickets in senior cricket in Uckfield’s total of 152-9

In reply, Hassocks lost a wicket in the first over, and despite useful scores of 17 from Jamie Purtell and 11 from Luke Miller, wickets fell regularly to leave a win looking unlikely at 85-7 with only 12 overs remaining.

However, successive partnerships of 34 saw Tony Coleman (18 not out) score the winning runs in the final over, helped by 26 not out from skipper Nigel Hartley and 23 from George Hutchinson.

Report: Justin Toussaint (webmaster)

Friday 18th April

As last year, I plan to update all members on issues discussed at committee. I hope this will give everyone a better idea of what goes on at committee, as we try to make decisions in the best interests of the club. (If you disagree, why not stand for next year's committee so you can help shape things?)

Developments this winter:

We have been given new pavilion furniture by the Men's Club. I'm sure you will agree it makes the place seem much more welcoming and more like a cricket club bar. Please look after the new chairs, sofas and tables, and don't take any of them outside. We still have other chairs and tables that are either weatherproof or old enough for it not to matter.

It has been agreed that Tony Lyne and Richard Bostel, who both sadly died this winter, will be commemorated. Tony's family kindly asked for donations to the pavilion fund to be collected (which raised £485), and he will be appropriately remembered in the new building. Richard's memorial is yet to be decided. One suggestion is an award in his name, and others are welcomed.

Indoor nets continue at St Paul's on Thursday evenings. A new outdoor net will be purchased, with grants from two sources covering most if not all of the cost. We have selected a wheeled one which will be much easier to manage than our current facility.

A new tea urn has been provided.

Discussions with the Parish Council on the pavilion project continue. I will update members as and when there is further news.

100 Club winners for 2008 so far are: January, Howard Collins (sorry); February, Anthea Collins (honestly); March, Lynne Rimmer. All three pocketed £53 for an outlay of £2 per month. Why not speak to Mick Bateup and join today?

See you on the pitch or in the bar soon.

Report: Howard Collins Committee Chairman

Friday 8th February

Keymer and Hassocks CC have moved a step closer to a new pavilion following a grant award from Mid Sussex District Council.

Council members approved £35,000 to Hassocks Parish Council towards the project at a meeting on Wednesday, February 6th, subject to a "cooling off" period of two weeks - a District Council requirement which very rarely affects grants of this nature. Terms of the award state that the club and the Parish Council now have one year to get further match funding in place, and another year in which to complete the project.

Chairman Howard Collins is investigating match funding options, which will have been greatly strengthened by this significant show of support from the local authority.

He said: "With the club committed to putting £30,000 towards the project, now more than matched by Mid Sussex District Council, we have around 20 per cent of the likely build cost guaranteed."

"I am reasonably confident that my match funding efforts could double this, with the Parish Council accepting that a public loan is inevitable for this project to happen. They have assured me at recent meetings that they are fully committed to the concept of making the new pavilion a reality and they are investigating planning and project management options."

"We are not at the finish line by any means, but this news is a good step in the right direction after years of frustration."

Report: Justin Toussaint

Wednesday 30th January

The fight to get a new pavilion for Keymer and Hassocks CC approaches a crucial milestone next week, when Mid Sussex District Council considers a grant application from Hassocks Parish Council.

With help from the club, they have submitted a bid for £35,000, with a panel of councillors due to determine the outcome on February 6th.

Of course, there are no guarantees, but noises from MSDC have so far been encouraging.

Success would not only mean a cash injection, but would also demonstrate to other funders that the local authority supports the project - an important element for funders.

Keep an eye on this webpage for an update next week

Report: Howard Collins