THE Bolton and District Cricket Association is considering reforming for next season.

The league – the oldest in Lancashire and one of the oldest in the world – entered into a period of suspension after losing all its clubs at the end of the 2015 season.

But it has been heartened by positive feedback to the reorganisation of its main cup competition, the Cross Cup.

At a recent meeting to organise the reformation of the Cross Cup, the positive feedback the Association received from some of their old clubs motivated the executive committee to see if the league could start up again.

In a statement issued to The Bolton News, the Association executive committee said: “The Bolton and District Cricket Association is currently in suspension, but if sufficient interest is shown by clubs that wish to play in a league that aims to provide affordable, competitive cricket at local club level, then the suspension will be lifted for re-commencement in 2018.

“What is on offer is a league which already has all the trophies, including

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the Cross Cup, possibly the oldest cup in club cricket, more than ample funds, and experienced officers willing to put in place the wishes of the clubs showing an interest.

“What can be promised because of the financial stability are the following. No league fees, at least for the first year. A sponsorship that will be divided between the clubs. Rules agreed by the clubs which will allow them to spend what they can afford.

“Why not spend hard-earned income on clubhouse facilities, ground, equipment, juniors etc etc instead of trying to compete with clubs that have a larger financial basis and quite different priorities.

“In our opinion over the past three years league cricket in Lancashire has descended into a free-for-all shambles, with league against league and club against club.

“Our hope is to try and give an opportunity to clubs that wish to return to the values experienced pre-2014.

“Do not think that you may be alone, other clubs may be thinking the same. If you are interested in the above concept please contact, in confidence if wished, P Crook, e.mail pajcrook@yahoo.co.uk or tel 01942 515595 or 07760 917571 for more information, as soon as possible so that a meeting may be called.”