City of Ely Cricket Club has changed its name and appointed new captains as it enters its 153rd year. Formerly known as Ely and Haddenham, the club has reverted to its old name because a new club has been set up in Haddenham and that ground has not been u

City of Ely Cricket Club has changed its name and appointed new captains as it enters its 153rd year.

Formerly known as Ely and Haddenham, the club has reverted to its old name because a new club has been set up in Haddenham and that ground has not been used by the club during the past three seasons.

Bruce King - boasting more than 30 years experience with the club - has been appointed chairman.

"I'm pleased to take on the role of chairman at a very exciting time for the club," said King.

"We will be looking to improve the links between the junior and senior sides, and put the youngsters together with the nucleus of existing talent we have in our adult teams. I can see no reason why the club can't start moving back up the leagues."

Robin Hammerton - a first team regular in the last three seasons and leading wicket-taker in the last two - is the new 1st XI captain, and he cited 16-year old Luke Emson and Dan Beavis as youngsters who may be pushing for a first team place.

Nineteen-year-old Ed Aniskowicz is taking over captaincy of the 2nd XI.

The club is making good progress towards achieving the Sport England ClubMark quality standard, which provides recognition of being a 'safe, effective, child-friendly club'.

They have also implemented a number of child-welfare measures, including the development of qualified coaches and investment in the playing facilities.

Nets for senior players will begin on Friday 25 January from 6.30 - 8.00 pm at the City of Ely College Sports Hall.

All are welcome, regardless of experience or ability.

Anyone wishing to contact the club should telephone Mick Tickner on (01353) 722556 or 07707 117034.

Haddenham Cricket Club meanwhile was reformed in November, with their priority to re-establish a viable cricket square on the recreation ground.

They hope to have junior teams as well as an adult team based around the nucleus of players already available to them.

The secretary (Brian Allen) can be contacted on (01353) 741532.