FIVE clubs have been admitted to the Spenser Halifax League for the 2017 season.

In addition to Illingworth St Mary’s, from the Aire-Wharfe League, the four clubs who applied to join from the Huddersfield Central League were voted in at the Halifax League's annual meeting at Pellon Social Club.

The result of the electronic voting was: Birchencliffe 29-0, Leymoor 26-4; Bradley & Colnebridge 22-7; Mount 19-10.

Provided that Denholme Clough solve their ground problem, this will extend the Saturday section of the league to 34 clubs (Old Crossleyans have resigned).

The league executive will discuss the placement of Bradley & Colnebridge as, while they have a thriving junior section, they currently have only one senior team.

Their position will depend on what happens to Denholme Clough, coupled with that of two other clubs that may be struggling to field two teams.

The league will look in some depth during the close season at clubs' difficulty in fielding two teams.

Halifax League PR and media officer Paul Whiteley, who was involved in many incorporation meetings with the Huddersfield Central League, said: "As previously reported there was an unfortunate breakaway of a number of clubs after our agreement to accommodate all Central League clubs in a specific Huddersfield Central Conference within our league.

"It is more than pleasing therefore that the four clubs, and indeed Illingworth St Mary’s, have opted to join the foremost amateur cricket league in the region."

The league, meanwhile, have a new secretary, with Sowerby Bridge Cricket Club's Tim Helliwell being appointed at the league's annual meeting.

League chairman Anthony Briggs said: ‘We are delighted to welcome Tim to the league executive as he brings a wealth of cricketing experience, knowledge and new ideas.

"This appointment will help to consolidate our position as the foremost amateur league in West Yorkshire and shape the future of our great game over the coming months and years.

"He is a very well known, respected and popular figure throughout the league, and recently played an instrumental role in helping guide his beloved club successfully through difficult times, following the devastation caused after the terrible Calder Valley floods.

"We strongly believe he will be a brilliant addition to our loyal and dedicated executive team."