GWR's happy back-track (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

GWR's happy back-track

GWR's class of 2005 are, back (from left): Andy Stevens (last club captain), Chris Rogers, Steve Crawford, Phil Morton, Danny Stevens, Colin Rogers, Derrick Beer and John Crawford (chairman); front: Mark Flay, Ted Heape, Gerry Meale, Roger MortonSWINDON GWR Cricket Club took to the field for the first time in five years, albiet for a day, but there was no fairytale ending.

The club were forced to disband in 2000 when developers refused them permission to continue playing at their Shrivenham Road base.

But after sterling efforts from organiser Derrick Beer, the club reformed on Sunday for a special match against Wiltshire Queries at Tidworth, in which they lost by 30 runs.

GWR lost the toss and fielded first but the bowling of Danny Stevens and Phil Morton restricted the scoring.

The Haywoods managed to accumulate steadily, but the slow spin of Derrick Beer, Mark Flay and Andy Flay made the first inroads.

Morton returned to the attack and eventually finished with 4-34 as Queries were dismissed for 206.

In reply, Chris Rogers made a brisk 17 and father Colin added to the family contribution with an aggressive 30.

Despite a bright 36 from Andy Flay, GWR were dismissed for 176 but the reunion was the real talking point.

Organiser Beer said: "It was a great day for everyone. It was really heartening to see so many people turn up for the game.

"During the lunch interval and after the game there was time for the goodly group of spectators and players to reminisce and relive past glories.

"There was a strong feeling amongst all present that this match may become an annual event and so the Swindon GWR cricket club may rise again if only for another day."