SIR – It was early evening as I looked out on to The Avenue to see three young cricketers in white making their way to a match at Clayton Cricket Club.

This brought back happy memories of how I joined the cricket club in 1954. They were then known as Clayton Methodists.

We changed in a converted hen hut, and for our away games we travelled by bus. There was just a first and second team.

How things have changed. The ground has been improved beyond all recognition and now there are seven teams – two senior and five, yes five, junior teams.

Last season their work with young people in the community was recognised by the then-minister of sport Gerry Sutcliffe.

At the end of this season, an even better all-facilities pavilion is to be built.

Clayton CC needs all the help it can get to continue its invaluable work with young people, and is worthy of all the support this village can give as it looks to the future.

Thank you, Clayton CC, for all the happy memories you gave me and for the tremendous work and encouragement you give to the youngsters in this village.

Dennis Delaney, The Avenue, Clayton