Tribute to Crosfield triumph 'organiser'

Bob Moss has paid a glowing tribute to his fellow Shropshire selector Dennis Lewis - the man who 'organised' the county's first Crosfield Cup triumph in 35 years.

Moss was speaking as chairman of the SPS Whitchurch League at its presentation evening at the town's Civic Centre, when Lewis was a guest among a 210-plus attendance.

With All England Callum Wraight listening as part of Wem USC's division one and Shropshire Star Cup-winning squad, Moss's words highlighted a celebratory night on Friday.

"The Crosfield Cup success started three years ago when the the so-called Gang of Four selectors got elected - organised by Dennis Lewis," said Woore stalwart Moss.

"He made the rash statement at that county AGM that we would win in in our three year term - and he's proved to be right.

"I thoroughly enjoyed my three years under his leadership, and it wasn't all plain sailing.

"The players did a fantastic job, but we always knew we had the talent - we just needed organising."

Guest of honour, British president Ron Holt, acclaimed Shropshire's home and away victory over Yorkshire in the final as a "great feat".

"But it has been coming, given the success of Shropshire's juniors in recent years.

"And Shropshire has one of the most efficient county associations too - believe me!" added Holt.

There were special words too for Wraight.

"I had a fantastic day out at Crosby. I saw some of the best bowling I have seen in my life and Callum's success made me proud to be part of the Shropshire bowling scene," said an eloquent Moss.

Wraight and Isobel Jones received special presentations on the night, Jones' cut glass vase being to mark her second year in the prestige role of county president.

League president Peter Williams, at this first dinner in the post, thanked all officers for their hard work, but added: "My biggest thanks go to my fellow bowlers - without you we would not have a Whitchurch League."

And his message to teams who are facing relegation was: "Take it as an opportunity to meet new friends and play on new greens."

By Malcolm Fletcher