Stirling County Cricket Club
A Diary
Having persuaded the club to have a Captains Board recording all who had been Club Captain since its formation, the next task was to confirm the exact year when it was formed. This involved considerable time checking details in Stirling Archives and Stirling Reference Library eventually confirming 1862 to be the year.
The sources of information include the following:-
The Glasgow Herald, The Scotsman, The Daily Review, The Stirling Sentinel, The Stirling Advertiser, The Stirling Observer, The Stirling Journal, The Scottish Cricket Annual No 1 (1870/71), Bat and Ball by Thomas Moult, P. Kings Annuals and notes produced by N. L. Tranter.
Originally some authorities had suggested 1831 as the year and others the 1860s.
Having collected considerable details, it seemed sensible to carry on to current times since no record of the history of the club was located at any source. The result is a brief collection, year by year from 1832, of facts which had some effect on the running of the club and its varied successes.
Ian MacIver
Cricket and Stirling County Cricket Club
The word cricket was first used in about the 15th century, though there is reference to the game earlier in history .The earliest proof of its use was recorded in Tudor times. The use of the word "stumps" originated in the Weald of Sussex and Kent where a tree was the objective of the men who bowled. However on the Downland the lack of trees forced the shepherds to find an alternative. This they found in the "wicket or gate" of the sheep pens which consisted of two uprights and a detached cross bar called the "bail". At that time the stumps were only one foot high and two feet wide surmounted by a one piece bail.
It was not until about 1777 that the third stump was added to the wicket. Clearly rules were required to ensure reasonable uniformity of play in differing parts of the country. The first set of rules are reported to have been established in 1721 but more comprehensive rules were not produced until 1744.
It is apparent that there was not universal agreement as to the number of players required to form a side and it was not clarified until 1844 when the definition of what constituted a match was included. (The 1744 rules and the subsequent 1844 additions are included as an appendix.)
Since those days there have been regular amendments, often required to cover basic changes in the game.
Bowling was originally underarm as was normal in the game of bowls and when playing with children. To be legal the hand had to remain below of the elbow. Although round arm bowling is recorded about 1790, it was not legally permitted until 1828 and then the arm had not to be raised above the height of the shoulder. It has been suggested that one reason for the change was at the request of ladies who found that they could not bowl lobs very easily because their crinolines got in the way.
The present general form of overarm bowling was not legalised until 1864, having been precipitated by a match at the OVAL in 1862. In the game between Surrey and an England eleven on 27th August 1862, Edgar Willsher was no-balled five times for bowling with the hand above the shoulder, by umpire John Lilliwhite. Thereupon Willsher threw the ball on the ground and with the rest of his fellow professionals walked off the ground. The game was resumed the next day with a new umpire since Lilliwhite would not change his decision.
Since then there have been numerous changes, some minor and some major, such as in the 1930's when the "bodyline" controversy almost produced an international crisis. The code of 1947 was followed by the code of 1980 and still there are occasional changes of varying importance to the differing grades of cricket.
Not least important was the condition of the playing area. It was not until late in the 1880’s that high individual scores were made regularly. This is not surprising, as though relatively early in the 1800’s a form of grass mower was produced, most pitches were prepared by cutting the grass by scythe. Belatedly, the use of heavy rollers and grass mowers improved the surface of the pitch, rescuing batsmen from the problems produced by uneven surfaces.
The Rules of Cricket
Some of the rules and subsequent changes
1744 The pitch to be 22 yards long (never changed).
Bowling crease to be one yard each side of the stumps.
Popping crease to be 46 inches in front of the stumps
Cricket to consist of two stumps 22 inches high and to be 6 inches wide with one bail.
Weight of the ball to be between 5 and 6 ounces.
Number of balls to the over to be 4.
Winning the toss to give choice of innings and also the right to select where the wicket was to be pitched.
1774 Bat limited to 4 1/4 inches wide.
Ball to be between 5 1/2 and 5 3/4 ounces and 9 to 9 1/2 inches circumference.
The toss abolished, visitors to have both choice of innings and pitch.
1777 A third stump was added to wicket. Still a single bail.
1798 Wicket raised by 2 inches (24 inches) and width increased by 1 inch. (7 inches).
1809 The single bail changed to two bails.
1810 Wicket raised by 2 inches (26 inches)
1814 Width of wicket increased by 1 inch (8 inches)
1816 Toss restored choice of innings but umpire decided where the wicket was to be pitched.
1818 Wicket height raised another 1 inch (27 inches).
Distance between bowling and popping creases increased to 48 inches.
(1836 H. Daubney invented pads and N. Felix invented tubular gloves.)
1840 Length of the bat limited to 38 inches. Size of handle and blade not mentioned.
(1853 Nixon invented the cane handle on bats).
1882 (England lost the test series against Australia. The Sporting Times published the famous obituary from which the legend of the "Ashes" sprang.
1889 Over increased to 5 balls.
1900 Over increased to 6 balls.
1922/23 8 ball over authorised for Australia.
1927 Height and width of wicket increased by 1 inch to 28 inches and 9 inches.
Circumference of ball reduced to between 8 3/16 and 9 inches.
Subsequent changes have altered some of the measurements given above and to bring knowledge up to date it will be necessary to consult the latest publication of the M.C.C. official Laws of Cricket.
Some interesting landmarks.
1705 On July 14th 1705 there was an advert in the POSTMAN as follows:-
" This is to give notice that a match of cricket is to be played between 11 gentlemen of the west part of the County of Kent against as many of Chatham, for 11 guineas a man at Maulden in Kent on August 7th next." 1785 Mr.A.Bateman, President of the Scottish Cricket Union at the County Championship presentation to Clackmannan C.C. in 1960, pointed out that Scotland's first cricket match was played at Shawpark in 1785 between Colonel Talbots eleven and the Duke of Atholls eleven, for a thousand guineas side.
1719 The first County match was recorded in 1719 between teams representing Kent and London.
1744 The oldest surviving score is of a match played in 1744 between All England and Kent at the Artillery ground at Finsbury. Kent won scoring 53 and 58 for nine, All England scoring 40 and 70.
1750 The famous Hambledon Club was formed in 1750 but had a relatively short life, its existence ceasing in 1796. The Minute Book (1772-96) and the Subscription and Account books for 1791 to 1796 are the earliest records of organised cricket in the country. 1769 The first recorded Century partnership took place in 1769 on Broadhalfpenny Down made by Tom Suetor and George Leir, opening batsmen for Hampshire against Surrey.
1774 While the date cannot be confirmed it is believed that the first individual Century was scored by John Small scoring 135 for Hambledon against Surrey , in 1774. Another possible first was John Minshull, batting first wicket for the Duke of Dorset, scored 107 out of a second innings of 236 in 1780.
1787 In 1787 Thomas Lord had opened the first "LORDS", the first match being played between Middlesex and Essex. In the same year the Marylebone Cricket Club was formed, playing the first game at Lords in 1788.
1793 The use of sawdust was approved for the first time.
1805 The first Eton versus Harrow match was played in 1805, Eton winning by 2 runs. One of the Harrow players was Lord Byron.
1806 The first Gentlemen versus Players was played at Lords in 1806.
1809 In 1809 Lords moved to a new site and in 1814 it was moved to its present location.
1820 The first double century (278) was scored by William Ward for the MCC versus Norfolk.
1836 County cricket in England started in 1836, Sussex being the first club, followed by Northamptonshire in 1843, Surrey in 1845, Kent and Nottinghamshire in 1859 followed in rapid succession by most other counties.
1866 Wisdens Cricketers Almanac was first published in 1866.
1873 The County Championship started in 1873
1882/83 England, captained by the Hon. Ivo Bligh, took a strong team to Australia and although they lost the first match, won the second and third and regained the "ASHES". At the end of the third game the captain was presented with an urn suitably inscribed containing the "ASHES". For many years he retained the urn but finally passed it to Lords where it can now be seen. A fourth match was won by Australia, but the Ashes remained with England.
1882 W.L.Murdoch's second Australian team came to England and played one Test Match. Played at the Oval in August it was very exciting - one of the spectators dropped dead from excitement. Australia won by 7 runs England failing to get the 85 required for victory. On the day after the match, the Sporting Times published their now famous "obituary" from which the legend of the "ASHES" has sprung.
1885 J.S.Carrick recorded the highest individual innings (419 not out) playing for the West of Scotland against Priory Park.
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Stirling Cricket Club
1831 A note on cricket in a 1928 History of cricket in Scotland stated that Perth and Glasgow teams played in Stirling - the first game played in Stirling. After the game all the professional gentlemen in Stirling, both lawyers and doctors along with the principal shopkeepers formed a club. Local records are not readily available prior to 1832 when the first copies of Stirling papers can be seen in the archives and reference library. 1832 On May 19th two Stirling cricket club sides played on Kings Park.
"Although the day was not favourable, yet the parties played with great keenness and the game was finished at about 5 o'clock. Scores were No 1,43 and 67, No 2,43 and 24. About 40 members partook afterwards in Sawyers Inn of an excellent dinner (for which the match was played) and spent the evening in the most happy manner. We were glad to see on the field a very handsome tent which the club had recently purchased.”
1833 In 1833 Stirling C.C. played two games against Stirling Castle on Kings Park, winning both games. (July 20 Stirling 46 and 23/2 Castle 34 and 34)
(August 10 Stirling 49 and 94/8 Castle 72 and 690
A game was also reported against St Ninians Nailers on September 7th. The Stirling Advertiser reported that Glasgow Collegians played Perth on Kings Park on June 15th, this for £25 a side. On this game the report was:-
"With the exception of the guards at the wicket all the hands of Perth Club were out and one notch would again have made them victorious. The ball on being bowled was beautifully struck, but it bounded in the air. A death like silence for a few seconds reigned throughout the field. St Johnston (Perth) men seemed to a certainty to have accomplished their end when, lo, ere the ball came to the ground it was admirably caught by one of the Glasgow gentlemen and the issue was of consequence a tye. (Perth 30 and 47 Glasgow 38 and 39)" It was also reported that in an earlier match played in 1831 the Perth side won by 4 "hits".
1837 The next report available in the Glasgow Herald concerned a game on 20th May between the Stirling side and the Officers of the 76th Regiment stationed at Stirling Castle. The game was recorded as being won by the Officers, by 28 "shots".
Subsequently, another game was won by the by the Stirling players ,on this occasion by 48 hits.
1842 A report in the Stirling Observer on October 8th 1863 suggested that about 1842 the Stirling C.C. ceased to play. It is not recorded when it was revived.
1851 On a flat part of Kings Park, the club continued to play cricket against a variety of clubs including East Lothian, Clydesdale, Glasgow (possibly University Collegians) and military sides from garrisons stationed at Stirling Castle. Some players (James and Ebenezer Morrison and Alex Wilson) were also included in a Glasgow eleven which played against an England eleven on the Clydesdale ground, the result being declared a draw.
1856 An extract from the Edinburgh Courant reports on a match between Stirling and Grange, played on Kings Park.
"Rain set in early and continued to fall till after 5 pm but at 2 pm it was determined that the match should commence and Grange having won the toss went in. The first seven wickets fell in about an hour for 50 runs, a fair score considering the weather. The next two players however, remained for an hour and a half raising the score to 116 and the last wicket fell for a total of 150, of which one person made 50 and carried his bat. The Stirling Club went in at 5.30 pm and when time was called at 6.30 pm they had lost 4 wickets and made 43 runs.
Other games were played against Clydesdale and Perth.
1857 Few reports of games have been located but one against Perth in June resulted in a draw. Stirling 1st innings 51 Perth 1st innings 165 ( Imrie 47, Woods 53)
Stirling 2nd innings 59/4 time called.
1859 There are several reports of games played at Kings Park but details are vague. Against Clydesdale, Stirling scored 33 and 62 against 63 and 34/2-Playing against the Garrison Stirling scored 115 against 99.
In July there was a "Great Cricket Match at Edinburgh in which the difference in experience was indicated by the agreement that the United eleven of England played Grange who fielded 22 players, 18 being members of Grange plus 4 Professionals. Grange batted first scoring 106 against Uniteds 101. In the second innings Grange scored 112 against Uniteds 37. It was recorded that in their second innings the United side had to oppose the whole field of 22 "scotch" players with their numbers reduced by the absence of two of their best men, Wisden being indisposed and Grundy having been summoned back to London.
1862 -1876 The Years at Livilands
1862 As the population of Stirling increased, the space available for the club playing on Kings Park became diminished and that, coupled with the fact that the ground was public Property, put it out of the power of the club to keep it in the order which the extra scientific play superinduced by round arm bowling rendered more necessary, compelled the club to look for a private ground. A number of the members including Mr. Houldsworth of Craigforth, Mr. W. Forbes of Callander, Mr. Alex Wilson of Bannockburn (Skeech), Mr.E.Murrie, Provost, Major Bontine of Gartmore, Mr. G. W. F. Callender of Ardkinglass, Mr.Curror, solicitor, Mr.T.LGalbraith Town Clerk, and Messrs Ebenezer and James Morrison of Wester Livilands, bankers, decided to move to a park provided at Wester Livilands, now the location of Stirling Royal Infirmary.
The park was levelled and put in order at considerable expense and the club was named Stirling County Cricket Club, the original Stirling club continuing to play at Kings Park.
"Through the same energy and liberality the club has since been maintained and although placed at considerable disadvantage by the constant change in its playing members moving from Stirling and the neighbourhood, the club has nevertheless managed to keep its position in the cricketing world with considerable success" Sides played included Edinburgh Academicals, Perth, Paisley Thistle, Glasgow Caledonians and Carlton of Glasgow. Other clubs included Stirling Wanderers, Stirling Rock, Stirling Crag, Burgh United, Stirling Star, Stirling Greenwood and Stirling Thistle. In those days there were no organised fixture lists for the club and they arranged games whenever and wherever they could. Players from Stirling C.C. and County appear to have played for both clubs when available. In the August 7th Stirling Journal there was a complaint that Stirling C.C. had played a professional, Gauld, when it had been agreed not to include a professional. The excuse was that he was not a Stirling C.C. Professional but was for Stirling County. The relative strength of sides was indicated in a match with Clydesdale, played at Kinning Park where Stirling scored 43 and 55 against Clydesdale's 157
1863 This year saw a fairly full programme of games both at Livilands and away, Stirling C.C. also being allowed to play at Livilands. Many players continued to be members of both clubs. Names which appear regularly in reports in the Stirling Journal Include J.&E.Morrison, A. J Muir, E.Lewis, A.Gauld, ( professional ), P.Dalgleish, E.George, W.Houldsworth, Major Lampton, Colonel Baldero, J.McQuade, J.Campbell, W.Campbell, W.Lindsay, Mr Methven, Hon. Randolf Stewart, Mr. Binning, Mr.W.Forbes, Mr.Galbraith and Mr. Isache. Games were played against Stirling High School, The Garrison, Edinburgh Hermitage, Perth Excelsior, Dundee Tay, Dunfermline, Dalkeith, Caledonia, Belgrove, West of Scotland, Drumpelier, Clydesdale and Stirling C.C., with varying success. There are records of at least eight victories but against Clydesdale one was lost and another due to rain and a delayed start was drawn, while against Drumpelier on July 9th Stirling won by 7 wickets.
An interesting comment on the virtue of umpires was observed in the Stirling Observer of May 14th referring to a new cricket law:-
"The umpire is now released from watching the pitch of the ball; but he must observe the course it takes afterwards and if it hit part of the strikers person which is between the two wickets, then the man is out. This will give increased power for good or evil to the umpire: for good probably where umpires know their duties: for evil in country districts where an umpire invariably considers himself as a supplemental member of the eleven for whom he stands."
1864 Again a reasonably full programme of games was achieved starting with Stirling Belgrove on April 28th, through to September. A match had been arranged for September 15th against the Free Foresters but on account of a wet day the game was not proceeded with.
Of particular interest this year was the match played at Troon against Ayr County C.C. on August 25th and 26th. This was the first match recorded between County teams. The scores were Stirling 115 and 56, Ayr 136 and 36/2. A full report of the match was included in the Stirling Journal of September 2nd.
In a match with West of Scotland the visitors batted first and scored 58. In their innings Stirling had reached 55/5 when the West of Scotland gentlemen retired from the ground to meet the train.
1865 The team this year was selected from only 15 players and was recorded in the Stirling Observer as having "a brilliant season in 1865 - one of the finest in the annals of cricket in Stirling". The Stirling Journal on August 11th recorded that Stirling County C.C. of recent formation has raised itself to a very high position in the cricket world, having beaten all the leading clubs in South Scotland The club won 11, drew 2 and lost 4. This year the match with the Free Foresters was completed on the 7th and 8th August, the Free Foresters including Lord Downe plus Messrs Mordaunt and Mould who proved too strong for Stirling, scoring 215 against the home clubs 70 and 99. It was also noted that on several occasions "an excellent band was in attendance". 0n June 24th it was the Whins of Milton band.
1866 Details of the success this year are minimal. The season started on April 28th at Livilands, a match being arranged between Capt. Erskines team and Mr. Morrisons Team, the latter winning by 82 against 71.
On August 5th the club again entertained the Free Foresters of England with no more success than previously in 1865, being dismissed for 39 and 69 against 125.
1867 At the Annual General Meeting it was reported that the club's finances were in a good condition. The Committee included most of those concerned in the formation of the club in 1862. A new member was Lord Erskine. It was recorded that now that the turf was in good order, an increased number of members might be obtained. Applications from young players at £1 would be entertained.
1868 At the A.G.M. it was reported that a balance was still due in connection with laying out the ground. The Secretary was instructed to find out the number of members going to be present for the coming season before engaging a professional. The "House" and ground were in capital order and little or no expense would be needed on them. There was talk of opening the season with an athletic sports in place of a cricket match but there are no records of such sports. On 24th July, the club played its first match against the newly formed Clackmannanshire club.
1869 At the A.G.M. the club was informed that Sir Alexander Maitland, M.P. had lent the club a large two horse roller. Again the decision whether or not to employ a professional was ascertained. In the event A. Greenwood was engaged. It was agreed that if necessary the club would engage a "respectable person" to look after the club property and ground. It was decided to run a second eleven. A Stirling District Asylum side was formed in May.
Of general interest the Stirling Journal recorded on August 20th in an article that W.G.Grace had scored 1319 runs and taken 70 wickets for about a thousand runs. Of special interest was the fact that in about 3000 balls he bowled only 3 wides.
1870 At the A.G.M. there was little change in the Committee membership from that elected in 1863 and subsequent years. Financially the balance against the club had been greatly reduced. It was proposed that a "Crusade" should be made among the Northern Counties in July. There is no clear indication that this took place. On 12th August a two day march started against Northumberland at Northumberland. Was this the Northern County? It also appears that the club employed two professionals for some matches, namely A.Greenwood and N.Thompson (from Nottinghamshire.)
1871 The A.G.M. was held at the Star Hotel and membership was detailed:-
Patrons:- Col. Murray of Polmaise, Mr. W.Forbes of Callander, Mr G.Callender of Craigforth and Alex. Wilson of Skeoch.
President:- Sheriff Sconce. Vice Presidents:- Lord Erskine, Ex Provost Murrie.
Fixtures were arranged with Northern Counties, Sutherland County and with Northumberland at Livilands, again playing two professionals.
Stirling Water Commission agreed a charge of 1 a tear for the use of water on the field.
The season was recorded as unusually successful, the club not losing a match.
1872/3/4 In 1871 it is noted that the possibility of organising a representative County team from members of local clubs such as Blairlogie, Falkirk and Stanley House. There is no record that the proposal was successful.
1876 At a special meeting on June 16th the continued use of Livilands was discussed. It was unanimously agreed that immediate steps should be taken to secure a new ground.
The Committee authorised to act included J.T.Smith, J.Morrison, A.C.Murrie, G.Murrie and A.T.Dalgleish.
At the earlier A.G.M. it had been noted that fixtures were being arranged against County teams including Northern Counties, Roxbourghshire and Dunbartonshire. As Stirling was the first to introduce County cricket it was entitled to take a lead in endeavouring to bring County Cricket to Scotland up to the position it took over the border.
The New Ground at Williamfield
1877 This was the year that the club moved to the Williamfield ground as it is now known. A lease for ten years was agreed with Col. Murray of Polmaise Castle. The field was 13 acres in extent and it is recorded that 3000 square yards had been turfed and a commodious pavilion was erected at the eastern entrance. The turfing was done by Clarke of the West of Scotland C.C. who had laid a number of grounds in and around Glasgow. As the ground was not immediately available, members were not able to get any practice, which was said to account for the lack of victories. (Played 10, Drew 5, Lost 5.)
The cost of preparing the ground was over £200, payment being wholly dependant on subscriptions from members and Patrons. The ground was officially opened in May but the first match appears to have been against Aberdeenshire about the 22nd of June (the unabridged version of this match can be included as an appendix. See the Centenary Booklet.)
At later games against Grange and Clackmannan in July there are the first mentions of charges being made for admission to the ground, namely 6d, with artisans and youths 3d and ladies free.
1878 At the A.G.M. it was reported that the financial situation was highly satisfactory considering the outlay on the new ground and pavilion. A special effort was to be made to clear debt and to pay for water to be laid on to the field and to the pavilion.
1879 to 1883. No details readily available.
1884 At the A.G.M. Secretary Kidstone resigned after 13 years in the position, having left the district. The club was in an unusually prosperous financial position as the ground debt had been cleared thanks to a number of well wishers and Patrons.
1885 Played 9, won 1, drew 4, lost 4.
The lack of success was explained by one officer bearer:- " The reason is to be found in the fact that members did not get sufficient practice owing to their ground (which has rapidly been getting worse) becoming so bad that it could not be played with any degree of safety. The members have however resolved to level the ground properly and to returf the pitch. They have every confidence that they will be able to make Williamfield one of the finest cricket fields in Scotland."
Argos in his column in the Stirling Observer questioned whether or not "artisans" could afford to pay the heavy annual subscription, take three or four trips to Perth, Dundee, Cupar, etc., thereby losing a days work and wages, not to mention the 2/6 luncheon with which these matches generally open and the cost of dress. Artisans may be equal on the field but are not made to feel equal in the pavilion or on the street. Little wonder that Stirling Burgh United and Stanley Wanderers are reluctant to play for Stirling County C.C. The next week secretary, W.R.Johnston replied. “Argos is under the impression that Stirling County C.C. bars men of artisan class. WRONG — it is open to every cricketer wanting to join. At present it is the artisan members who, on the field, are respected as much as any member of the club. On the cricket field all men are equal." It was decided to get a professional who would devote his whole time to the ground and to looking after the play of young members. This could be a strong inducement to many to become members. It was estimated that it would cost £300 for the proposed improvements and already subscriptions of £65 had been promised towards the cost. Col. Murray agreed to reduce the rent and to allow the club to carry out the improvements... During the season, in the match against Forfarshire, the start was delayed until "Forfarshire could produce a quorum of players", Stirling only had nine players and no scorer or umpire. (They had problems than as now.)
In a match against United Northern, the visitors batted until very late in the day, scoring 111 and in the short time left Stirling scored 26/5 This apparent lack of interest in achieving a result was clearly shown by Stirling in a game against Edinburgh Academicals at Polmont. Stirling scored 305/6, Mr. Morris scoring 166. The Edinburgh score is not known, but one is not surprised that the match was drawn.
1886 This year, Stirling Wanderers are reported as merging with Stirling C.C.C. The first eleven had a poor year not winning a single game. Despite the fact that the £300 had not been raised, enough had been available to effect necessary improvements. It was decided to allow Stirling Lawn Tennis Club to use the ground.
The annual subscription was set at one guinea, 10/6 for artisans and boys. Spectators gained admission to all games for 2/- with boys 1/-. The Stirling Journal urged the club to spend money on a lawn mower and a heavy roller. It further suggested that some rich person should bequeath to the club a few thousand pounds, the interest from which to pay for two groundsmen, a horse roller and a lawn mower. (There is no confirmation that anyone acted on the suggestion.) Nevertheless a mower and a ballast roller were purchased and a man engaged to roll the ground 3 hours a day except on Sunday. A fence had been erected round the pavilion and flags placed around the ground. Further Stirling Journal comments were "1886 was the first year that the club had a ground in anything like good order. In fact it was the first year that members could learn to play with any confidence.” As a result of the Williamfield improvements there had been an increase in membership.
1887 At the end of the season, several of the older members having given up the game and there being no new young blood forthcoming, the club activities were unfortunately suspended. There is a lack of information in respect of the years up to 1892 during which period little if any organised cricket was played by the club.
1890 Burt and Simpson joiners and Robert Frater, plumber, sued the club for £30-5-10 and £32-14-8 respectively in respect of work entailed in putting up fences, repairs and the laying of water pipes to the ground and pavilion. The former Secretary, Mr.Johnston was instructed to provide a list of members at the time that the work was done. Last year's rent had not been paid. It was accepted that the debts of the club should be paid by members.
1892 A report in the Stirling Journal on 11th March. “There are rumours of the resuscitation of Stirling County Cricket Club.” This year Mr.K.R.Braund, a cricket enthusiast proposed to restart the club. His proposal was taken up enthusiastically.
On 28th November a committee was appointed. 53 provisional members attended and a subscription of £116 was collected from Stirling and Bridge of Allan. However, having satisfied itself of local support, the Committee decided to extend the offer to gentlemen of the County. A circular was produced signed by Mr. Forbes of Callander, J.Cook Gray of Blairlogie, J.B.Whitelaw of Allangrange, Robert Smith junior of Brentham Park, inviting county gentlemen to attend a meeting on December 9th at which it was hoped that the club could be launched. Mr.Forbes was willing to become President. Among those present at the December meeting were Mr. Mitchel of Millfield Polmont, Robert Smith junior and Douglas Smith of Brentham Park, Mr Curror solicitor, Mr. Chrystal solicitor, Kenneth J.Braund, R.M.McEwen, Mr.Lupton solicitor, S.D.Murrie banker, J.G.Murray, G.B.Stark of Bridge of Allan, G.L.Smith, J.Davidson, G.S.Hunter and D.Somerville. There were apologies from Mr.Cook Gray, Col.Murray of Polmaise, Mr.Niven banker and W.L.Thompson. A letter from Mr. Jacks M.P. promised £145. Col. Murray would let the club have the ground at a much lower rent than before. The Duke of Montrose, Mr.Forbes of Callandar, Mr.Cook and Mr J.B.Whitelaw and several others had promised to join and promised large subscriptions. As the sum of £145 was promised it was agreed to go ahead with construction of a pavilion ( a Mr Frater promised to charge his work at cost price), lay a water pipe from Torbrex to the pitch and employ a professional who with rent and ground improvements would cost £80.
The club was formed with the Duke of Montrose as Patron, Mr. Forbes as President, Mr Cook Gray as Chairman, Mr.K.J.Brand as Honorary Secretary and Mr R.Smith junior as Treasurer. Fixtures for 1893 would include games with Blairlogie, Grange, Edinburgh Academicals, Stenhousemuir, Linlithgow County, Clackmannan County, Arbroath United, Cupar, West of Scotland, Perthshire and Poloc with four dates open for scratch or practice games.
A useful income was achieved by leasing the ground for grazing by sheep for £19 per year, though on construction of the pavilion a fence was erected to keep out sheep and children.
1893 The opening game of the newly revived club was at Williamfield against Grange on 12th May. By this time the club had 120 members of which 40 were players. The match was played for hours in brilliant sunshine. The Stirling side included four players from Blairlogie and the Cambusbarron Band entertained the assembled crowd.
"Several gentlemen too, drove to the ground in their vehicles and what with the gay costumes of the ladies made the scene a brilliant one. The Cambusbarron Band and their music lent an additional charm to the day."
Lunch was taken with Grange on 72/2 in the pavilion, purveyed by Mr. James Lennox of the Golden Lion hotel, who had also provided a marquee on the ground.
The result of the game was a victory for Grange who scored 133 against Stirling's 64. It was confirmed that Col. Murray had agreed the lease would be for 5 years at a rent of £30 per year. The Kings Park Football Club allowed the club the use of their heavy horse roller.
Commenting on the small attendances of spectators at Stirling C.C.C. Matches, a writer in an Edinburgh paper writes, "Stirling folks are Association Football daft and football matches prove a greater attraction than cricket." The Stirling Observer on May 17th replies "That the writer doesn't know much about Stirling is evident, else he would not have penned such a sentence. Though football mania is nowhere compared with other towns, the interest in the game is undoubtedly greater than in cricket and it is scarcely the proper method of popularising the latter pastime by charging double the price of admission to a football match. Cricket in Stirling will have an uphill fight but its progress won't be helped by making the gate a sixpenny one." A later comment suggested that “lawn tennis killed off cricket in Stirling district but in its turn the former is being displaced by golf. The pendulum will yet swing back to cricket which has something more than being considered fashionable to recommend it.”
An unusual record was made by wicketkeeper W.H.Bain playing for Gloucester when he stumped three batsmen in succession off the bowling of C.L.Townsend.
1894 At the A.G.M. it was agreed to reduce admission this season to 3p. At 6p the club took only £3 in 1893.
The effect of tennis and golf accounted for a report on July 11 that for the third time this season the club was unable to raise a team - support from outside Stirling was not as good as promised. Because of this situation, at a meeting on September 5th it was suggested that Stirling unite with Clackmannan, to play alternately at Alloa and Stirling - both teams made up of players from Alloa and Stirling. No record of action on the proposal has been found. A decision by the Committee whether or not to play as a club next season would depend on circumstances. They were not prepared to travel several players short of a side as had happened in 1894.
1895 The difficulty in raising a team continued. The cause of poor results was the variableness of the team put in the field, for while 4 or 5 men could always be counted on to play, the remaining 6 or 7 varied with almost every match, and frequently even they were only obtained with difficulty.
A report in the Stirling Observer on August 14th :- "Perthshire victory over Stirling County C.C. was an illustration of how little there sometime was between victory and a draw. Perth made 118/7. Stirling were 63/9 but as they were one player short they lost. If there had been a full team had the absent player been forward "time" would have been called before he got to the wicket and the result would have been a draw."
During the Autumn negotiations were opened with Clackmannan County with the object of arranging one or two matches to be played by the joint Counties against some of the best clubs in Scotland. Only one was arranged against West of Scotland, away.
1896 At the A.G.M. members were congratulated on the improved results compared with those in 1894 and 1895.
The Committee had decided that the presence of sheep on the field in the summer was objectionable and detrimental to the pitch. It was decided to let the field from Autumn to Spring. However this reduced the revenue for the last season and it was decided to restore the letting of the ground for sheep in the summer.
In English cricket it was recorded that K.S.Ranjitsinhji scored two centuries in one day playing for Sussex against Yorkshire (100 and 135 not out) a feat never before performed.
1897 During the 1896/97 winter, ground improvement consisted of filling up and levelling for a considerable distance of all the long deep furrows which existed on each side of the pitch. The experiment last year of giving High School boys opportunities for practice and training was very successful. A large number of them came and would add to the strength of the club in the future. It was to be continued.
As a result of an appeal a considerable sum was raised with which the club financed improvements, wrote off liabilities and purchased a horse mower.
By August 27th, Hallas the professional had taken 100 wickets.
1898 The club was informed that Secretary K.Braund was moving to Aberdeen. It was largely due to his enthusiasm that the club restarted in 1893. A presentation of a gold watch was made to him.
August 18th. The match against Perthshire at Williamfield attracted a much larger attendance than normal and gate receipts plus collection raised £20 for the professional Hallas
Stirling Observer August 24th. A comment on the members of the side played against Ferguslie was that with the exception of Hallas, the club members were all" former public Schoolboys, three English and seven at Scottish upper class seminaries."
1899 An appeal to members to help reduce the debt on ground improvements and pavilion, raised £25.
By drawing members from all parts of the County, the club has become what it was intended to be, not a local but a truly representative County Club.
Mr Forbes had presented wooden bowling screens and some members had provided a permanent wire boundary fence.
Comment in a Dunfermline paper. "Some of the decisions of the Stirling umpire were a bit ridiculous and had no small say in the winning of the match." "Whatever the decisions are on questions of LBW or boundary lines, they ought to be promptly and silently accepted.”
1900 At the General Meeting the Secretary commented that there was much less trouble raising teams in 1899 and there was a gratifying increase in the number of spectators. The club colours had suffered various changes in the past, the latest being green and gold, now adopted by several clubs. It was decided to change to cherry and plum.
Player averages were detailed in the Stirling Observer on September 12th 1900.
CRICKET BEFORE THE GREAT WORLD WAR
1901 The Stirling Observer of September 11th report on Stirling C.C.C, against Perthshire which was Hallas's benefit match was:-
" Some people considered that the County ought to have closured earlier last Wednesday and given Perthshire players some more time to bat, seeing that they had fielded in a pretty cool wind. When, however, the fact is remembered of Perthshire having at a match in June batted until they scored 300 and left Stirling, who had been in the field a long time under a broiling sun, only an hour and half to bat, there was no reason to feel sorry for Perthshire." Stirling 219/6 Perthshire 67/0.
Alfred Shaw of Nottinghamshire in a career of 31 years, showed astonishing accuracy of length at slow and slow medium bowling, bowling 16,922 maidens out of 24,700 overs, taking 2,051 wickets at a cost less than 12 runs apiece.
1902 On May 17th a new pavilion was opened. The pavilion had been the Burmese pavilion at the 1901 Empire Exhibition and cost £500. An appeal to members to subscribe to the cost achieved a sum of £520 by the opening day. Subscribers included:- The Duke of Montrose, The Marquis of Graham, Col. Murray of Polmaise, Mr C.Forbes of Calendar, Mr. Orr of Kinnaird, Mr. W.Risk of Bankier, Mr.James McKillop, M.P.,Col. Wilson and Sheriff Buntine.
The opening was performed by the Marquis of Graham after the interval at 4 o'clock, which was taken between innings, with a large gallery of ladies and gentlemen. A vote of thanks was to the Marquis was offered by Col. Wilson who remembered playing cricket on Kings Park in 1858. As the subscription list was short, he would donate £10 towards the deficit.
Batting first Grange scored 145/5 and after the interval Stirling scored 87/7, time being played out.
The Marquis of Graham was standing in for his father the Duke of Montrose who was serving his country in Africa and his older brothers who were cricketers. He had been an oarsman.
Stirling Observer June 18th. "W.MacDonald, Perthshire's third man in, was dismissed in a rather unusual manner. After scoring one, the ball ran from his hand, touched the wicketkeeper's hand in passing and was caught in the slips by Yellowlees. There was no appeal until Hallas was about to deliver the next ball. At this point, however, an appeal was made to the umpire by Dunlop and MacDonald was given out. He did not retire with very good grace and of course the Perth spectators did not appreciate the decision. They never do unless the decision happens to be the way they want."
1903 This season saw fixtures arranged with a range of sides including
Drumpelier, Ferguslie, Grange, Kelbourne, Edinburgh University, Perthshire, Arbroath, West of Scotland, Aberdeenshire, Fifeshire, Clackmannan, Forfarshire, Carlton, Lord Eglington' eleven and Uddingston.
Clackmannanshire were disappointed when they were refused admission to the Scottish Counties Championship.
The appointed Stirling professional, Hoskinson, was unable to join the club at the start of the season, having broken a bone in his ankle. He arranged for a young Middlesborough player, Teesdale to act in his stead. He proved to be a useful batsman as well as a bowler.
Two examples, indicating that playing a game was more important than just winning, are given by the scores of two typical matches played :- 1) S.C.C.C. v Drumpelier Drumpelier batted first reaching 142 in two and a half hours, while in the one and a half hours left Stirling scored 86/8 time called. 2) S.C.C.C. v Grange. Stirling batted first scoring 64. Grange then scored 248/4 of which T.Johnston scored 139 not out.
The difficulty still met in starting matches at the time arranged is illustrated in an extract from the Stirling Observer, on the match against Kelburne.
"Winning the toss , Kelburne elected to bat first. Play was intended to start at 2.30 but of course it didn't - cricket matches never do begin at the time fixed upon. It was almost 3.00 o'clock when the teams went out. This made it almost a certainty that the result would be a draw unless one side or the other collapsed. Kelburne scored 127 (in 2 hours 20 minutes) S.C.C.C. 74/8 (in 1 hour 30 minutes.)
The Annual General meeting was held in the Golden Lion Hotel on April 16th.
1903 Team averages were given in the Stirling Observer on September 9th.
1904 There were only four teams in the County Championship this year, Aberdeenshire, Forfarshire, Perthshire and Stirling County, Fifeshire having dropped out. The opening match of the season was against XVI of Grangemouth and District. The latter scored 69 but Stirling were all out for 59. It was reported that on going to bat Stirling found that they had made a mistake in permitting sixteen fielders against them, when generally in such matches only eleven fielded. There was some difficulty in piercing the field.
During the season Stirling played against Aberdeenshire, Arbroath United, Carlton, Ferguslie, Clackmannan County and Tees side Rangers.
An interesting achievement was recorded in a match between Aberdeen and Lord Huntley's XI. Douglas Jamieson, bowling for Aberdeen took 7 wickets for 19 runs.
"In one of his overs he had three wickets with successive balls.( Hat trick) In the next over he again took three wickets in successive balls. (Hat trick)”
The Annual General meeting was held in the Golden Lion Hotel on April 14th.
1904 Team averages were given in the Stirling Observer on September 14th.
1905 The Club Captain, C.W.Forbes, was only able to play in three games this season.
During the season in the County Championship matches the club had some help from Stenhousemuir players. In the last week of the season on Saturday September 2nd, Stirling made the lowest score of their career, 25 against Uddingston. The following extract from the Stirling Observer is an extreme example of the effect the result of a match could have on over enthusiastic spectators.
" In the season 1905 they (Stirling) twice lowered the colours of Perthshire and even at the time it was considered a very great feat to defeat Perthshire on their own Ground, North Inch. The disgust of the Perth spectators after the North Inch game almost led to a riot. The Stirling umpire had evidently not been frightened in the face of the yelling crowd, for he gave three Perthshire batsmen out LBW when they were entitled to go out for "putting their legs in front of straight balls". The umpire had to seek the aid of a stump in order to make his way through the menacing crowd to the pavilion. This was probably unique in the history of cricket in Scotland."
The Annual General Meeting was held on March 3rd.
Team averages were detailed in the Stirling Observer on September 6th.
1906 At the AGM on 2nd March the Chairman reported that the club had been complimented on the excellence of its fielding in almost every paper he had seen and he thought it ought to be put in the Minutes.
Report in the Stirling Observer:- "Stirling finished bottom of the Counties Championship which probably accounted for the report. "Stirlingshire has no batting to second their admirable fielding"
George Younger of Leckie, M.P. was elected Vice President.
C.W.Forbes was again elected Captain but business only allowed him to play five games.
The Scottish Counties Championship was tied between Aberdeenshire and Forfarshire, but as Forfarshire had completed 10 games to Aberdeenshire's 9, Aberdeenshire decided to negotiate with Perthshire to play a game not played because of rain. A game was played on August 25th but the result was not published in Stirling papers. Clearly Aberdeenshire did not win since the Championship was shared with Forfarshire.
1906 Team averages were published in the Stirling Observer on September 5th.
1907 The A.G.M. on March 4th was attended by 20 members out of a membership of 200. This was the last season when Counties were allowed to play two professionals. Reports in papers suggest that the weather during the season was bad, probably the worst for many years. An enclosure was constructed in front of the pavilion.
The County Championship saw the addition of Lanark, Renfrew and Ayr.
Mr.Ebenezer Morrison. who was responsible with others for the founding of the club died. (Latterly he had not been a member.)
The Secretary reported at the A.G.M. :- "As to the Williamfield Xl, about the only thing lost by them was their scoring book."
Stirling Journal comment on Scottish Cricket was:-" One of the promising features of these juniors is the excellence of their bowling, which in comparison with their seniors, far over shadows them. Amateur bowling in our senior elevens is to a large extent a decadent art nowadays."
Team averages were detailed in the Stirling Observer of September 18th.
Perthshire were champions.
1908 As heralded last year only one professional was employed this year, namely Grewcock. In the season he took a total of 103 wickets playing for the first eleven. Early in the season the possibility of connecting with the telephone system was considered. Eventually one was installed in the pavilion.
Reporter's comments sometime suffer considerable changes as the following excerpts from a Glasgow paper show:-
Friday Evening " The West of Scotland oppose Stirling C.C.C. at Williamfield and as they are travelling with a very strong side they are likely to win".
Monday Evening “The West of Scotland with a rather poor side out, were badly beaten by Stirling C.C.C.- The County men with weak bowling against them scored freely and got 175 for 5 wickets. (West of Scotland batting first scored 94.)”
At the 1908 A.G.M. on March 2nd a motion was passed, after some discussion, to permit the Williamfield XI to be represented on the Committee.
The fact that the club lost 10 games of which 7 were in the County Championship probably occasioned the cynical comment in the Stirling Journal:- "Stirling maintained their unbroken record of defeats on Saturday in the County Championship - but they did score more, they made their lowest ever score in the competition - and at home on a scoring wicket" (Stirling 56 Aberdeenshire 183.)
Aberdeenshire won the Championship for the second time.
1908 Team averages were given at the 1909 A.G.M.
1909 At the A.G.M. on March 5th it was reported that one of the Vice Presidents had sponsored arrangements to have the worst furrows in the field levelled.
The Treasurer reported :- Season 1908 started with a debit balance of 4s 6d and finished with a debit balance of £33.6.0. mainly as a result of improvements to the ground and pavilion, i.e. new stand in the members enclosure, scoring box and purchase of a ground roller and practice net.
He also reported that not a single member's subscription was unpaid and that, with a membership over 300.
Report in Stirling Observer September 8th:- Stirling County and Williamfield sides played Uddingston. In both games an Uddingston bowler recorded a hat trick. (Broadment in the first Xl, and Bunt against Williamfield.)
Forfarshire won the County Championship.
1909 team averages were detailed in the Stirling Journal on September 10th.
1910 C.W.Forbes, continuing to live in Berwick would not be able to play so much. For his great service to the club he was appointed Honorary Captain of the Club.
Gooder, the professional took 100 wickets in the season.
The Secretary commented on " the difficulty in maintaining a regular team. Towards the end of the season he had to ask over 20 men before he could get a side. The club could not expect to win matches if golf and other pastimes were preferred.
The A.G.M. was held on March 4th.
The team averages were detailed in the Stirling Observer on September 7th.
1911 At the A.G.M on March 6th, the Secretary appealed to members to try to turn out more regularly than they did last year, having appealed similarly at last year's A.G.M..
At the beginning of the season an attempt was made to get Stenhousemuir, East Stirlingshire and Grangemouth clubs to join the County in playing County Championship matches. Unfortunately the proposal fell through.
A two day match was arranged for August 7th and 8th against an I.Zingari team raised by Mr.C.W.Forbes. The match was played Stirling batting first scored 131 and I.Zingari reached 232 by close of play. Next day they added to that score reaching 274. Stirling replied in their second innings with 111. As often was the custom, spectators were entertained by an orchestra and a pipe band.
In October, a General meeting was held to consider "the possibility of continuing to play in the Scottish Counties Championship" It was decided by a majority of those present "to continue membership for another year".
Professional Goodber took 108 wickets in the season out of a total of 211 taken by County bowlers. His average was 12.32- Against the Watsonions Goodber took all ten wickets.
The 1911 Team averages were detailed in the Stirling Observers of 5th and 12th September.
1912 During this season Stirling once scored over 300 and four times over 200. 0n three occasions they declared at a score of over 200. 0pponents scored over 200 three times but only declared once.. The 300 was scored against Fettes College pupils in which Turnbull scored 103.
In England there was a triangular tournament between England, Australia and South Africa. It was in a test match between Australia and South Africa that T.J.Mathews took a hat trick in each innings ,for Australia, at Manchester.
The A.G.M. was held on March 8th.
Team averages were detailed in The Stirling Journal of September 12th.
1913 The club's professional in 1896, Lindsay, now played for Warwickshire. In mid August in a match against Surrey, he scored a double century in the first innings and 101 not out in the second innings.
"Cricket Notes" in the Stirling Observer regularly commented on the lack of reports from clubs but apparently Stirling were an exception.
Playing for the second eleven against Uddingston, Goodber, the professional bowled 12 overs, 9 maidens for 14 runs and 7 wickets.
The A.G.M. was held on March 13th.
The teams averages for 1913 were detailed in the Stirling Observer of September 9th.
1914 The A.G.M. was held on March 30th.
The team averages were published in the Stirling Observer of September 22nd. and included extensive comments on individual members.
At the beginning of September the Military Authorities commandeered ??
1915 to 1918 During this period there was no organised cricket.
Post Great War Cricket
1919 During this year only about 12 friendly games were arranged and no County
Championship.
On June 17th the first match at Williamfield since 1914 was played against
Stenhousemuir. The team consisted mainly of pre war Williamfield players plus an ex Professional, A.Dixon playing as an amateur. Stirling scored 34 and Stenhousemuir 67/7.
At the end of June Stirling played Grangemouth twice . At Williamfield the result was Stirling 100, Grangemouth 66 and at Grangemouth. Stirling 24 and Grangemouth 154.
At a Counties meeting it was decided to revive the County Championship next Year. (1920) It was unanimously agreed to dispense with professionalism in the inter county matches so far as the Championship was concerned.
In the last game of the season Stirling defeated the West of Scotland, Stirling scoring 204 for 5 declared, West of Scotland 29. Perhaps the fact that the West of Scotland fielded only 10 players affected the result.
At the beginning of the season it was reported that “the club have become possessed of
a horse, the services of an equine assistant being necessary for pulling the heavy grass
cutter and roller.”
1920 An A.G.M. was held on February 28th which was the first general meeting since 1914. Fixtures for 18 matches had been arranged, the season opening with a game against Glasgow University. In a match against Forfarshire, a player (Whyte) in scoring 81 included a great drive over the ropes in the direction of Torbrex Loan. This was compared with a drive by Dudley H.Forbes (younger brother of C.W.Forbes) which landed against the dyke of St Ninians School in 1900.
On August 14th Aberdeenshire played at Williamfield and expressed surprise at the small crowd - at Aberdeen crowds of up to 2000 were quite usual. Scores were Stirling 90 Aberdeenshire 128/6.
L.PIant, principal of Hurst Grange School had a disconcerting experience, his bat split from the handle when playing the ball back to the bowler. With a new bat he was bowled next ball.
Stirling Team averages were detailed in the Stirling Observer of August 31st.
1921 At the A.G.M. on March 4th it was reported that 21 fixtures were arranged. The first game against Glasgow did not auger well for the season. Glasgow University 138 for 9 declared Stirling 15 C.Melville 6 for 6, A.R.Forester 4 for 7.
A report suggests that the wicket was easy at the start but became tricky when the sun dried it out.
Stirling Second XI figured in some unexpected results.
Against Alva Guild - Alva 25 Stirling 12 (September)
Against Coalsnaughton - Stirling 99 Coalsnaughton 99 (August 28th) In this game the reliability of the scorers was suspect. With both teams out it appeared to be a win for Coalsnaughton by 2 runs but on checking, discrepancies were found between the two books. Both were minutely checked and it became clear that there were differences which could not readily be corrected. It was agreed to call the result a draw, accepting that such errors were only to be expected from boys.
Scoring was also the subject of a complaint by an "attender" , namely 1) the telegraph was not always right as some numbers dropped off the hooks, and 2) No names were shown of the batsmen. It was suggested that to indicate their names could be of interest to spectators.
Team averages were detailed in the Stirling Journal on September 22nd.
1922 Again the first game was against Glasgow University the result being better than last year:- Stirling 75 Glasgow University 57.
The charge for entry to the ground was 1/-. A complaint considered this to be too much since pre war it had been 6p. The Treasurer explained that now that there was an entertainment tax the club received less out of the shilling than from the 6p pre war.
A complaint was aired in the papers that the method of awarding points at games was unfair in that no notice was taken of draws in arriving at the % age.
For example:- A wins 9 Loses 1 result 80%
B wins 1 Draws 9 result 100%
Team averages were detailed in the Stirling Observer of September 12th
1923 At the A.G.M. on March 9th a ground committee was formed which was given full powers to conduct the affairs of the club during the playing season.
It was also decided to abandon the charge for admission to the ground and to take a collection. A charge was still to be levied for entry to the club enclosure.
The season opened on April 29th to considerable rain and hail, not considered to be summer like. Fund Raising:- During the winter a Bring and Buy Sale raised £21.
A stop watch competition was staged in which a watch was wound up and placed in a sealed box. Mr John Curror, the Sheriff Clerk guessed the nearest time to when it stopped.
At the end of the season. Mr Wilson, who had been Secretary for many years (1898-1903 and 1909-1923) indicated that he wished to retire and it was agreed to appoint his assistant Mr Allison.
An article in the Stirling Observer of August 14th by Tom B.Jones of Stenhousemuir, indicated his opinion that "Cricket in Scotland was losing popularity and suggested that to revive the flagging interest, each side should be allowed a certain time to bat, the side scoring most runs in the time to be the winner" Comment on the suggestion was that this might result in big hitters opening the innings which would certainly be more important in evening matches, where time was most limited.
1924 At the A.G.M. on March 6th the Treasurer reported that an adverse balance of £151 had been reduced to £26. A further improvement through the return of entertainment tax plus the returns from a whist drive produced a credit of £14, unfortunately too late to include in the audited accounts. This was the first occasion when a report was given on the third XI. It was reported that 21 games had been arranged for the first XI and 17 for the second XI.
A newspaper reported that a new player had joined the club, A.J.Intin, not a Scotsman but the next best thing, a Yorkshireman. He had played for Irlam near Manchester, East Stirlingshire and Grangemouth.
1925 At the A.G.M. on March 23rd it was agreed to “revert to the former practice of charging 6p for admission to First XI games with a collection to be taken at all other games. Ladies would be admitted free at all games.”
The Patron of the club, The Duke of Montrose died. A report stated that the "duke had
attained his jubilee on succeeding to the title." "His grace had pleasant recollections of
his playing days with the club."
1926 At the A.G.M. on March 29th it was agreed to continue the charge for admission to the ground at 6p.
Income recorded included:- Rent £4 from the High School for sports on June 23rd and rent of £7 from the High School F.P. Rugby Club for use of the ground during the winter. Expenditure incurred included £10 for the purchase of a horse with an agreement that the seller would buy it back at the end of the season unless the club received a better offer.
A professional was engaged for £5 per week plus a benefit game to be assigned. W.CIark (later to become a stalwart member of Stirling C.C.C. and Captain 1942-1949) played his first game on Williamfield, playing for Forfarshire.
1927 The A.G.M. was held on March 29th.
A horse was purchased on the same basis as in 1926 but cheaper this year at £8.
Player's subscription was confirmed as £1.10.0.
A new horse mower was purchased but it proved to be not very satisfactory.
A Ladies Hockey Club rented the ground for the winter, at a rent of £5.
In August Stenhousemuir proposed the formation of a new Junior League to which the second XI was invited.
Stirling agreed to support West Lothian's effort to join the County Championship in 1930.
During the season the club defeated Forfarshire twice, which was thought to be unique in the club's history.
1928 The lease of Williamfield was terminated by the Polmaise Estate and instead the club was offered an annual tenancy. The alternative was the purchase of the ground for £4.000. The Committee considered the situation and offered to purchase for £2.500, which it was felt could be raised to £3.000. For the time being the annual tenancy was accepted.
At the A.G.M. on April 3rd it was agreed to continue to charge 6p for admission .
A second XI was entered in the Falkirk and District League.
It was reported that the pavilion had been broken into.
On July 28th the Stirling County second XI played Grangemouth and dismissed them for a total of "one". It was reported in a local newspaper:- "In a Falkirk and District League match, Stirling County Second XI created what may be a record in cricket circles in Scotland by dismissing Grangemouth for one run. The only other occasion it is believed, in which this score was recorded a number of years ago was when Somerset were the victims. The Stirling bowlers were in fine form, W.Somerville taking 5 wickets for no runs, including the hat trick in 5 maidens, while D.M.Wright took 4 wickets for 1 run in 5 overs with 4 maidens. One player was run out."
1929 As the club could not afford to purchase the ground, it was agreed, after discussion with Mrs Buntine, the owner, to lease the ground on an annual basis. The club was found liable for the water rate for the last five years, agreed to be £5. It was decided to purchase a motor mower (24"cut) at a cost of £67.10.0 plus £2.10.0. for a special grass box. As £20 was allowed for the replaced mower, the effective cost was £50.
Use of the ground for High School athletics and rugby was at an agreed rent.
The Ladies Hockey team was also granted use of the ground at an agreed rent.
Fund raising achieved a sum of £89.11.3. from a dance and whist drive.
Several members indicated that they agreed to carry out repairs to the Tea Pavilion.
Agreement was reached with Stenhousemuir for assistance in County Championship Matches. :-1) Three players at least to be provided by Stenhousemuir on request being made prior to the Monday prior to the match. Stirling County to nominate three players or substitutes. 2) Matches against Forfarshire and Aberdeenshire to be played at the Tryst in 1930. 3) Stenhousemuir entitled to all receipts and liable for expenses for the two games.
The professional asked to be released from his contract in order to play football for Heart of Midlothian. The club did not agree to the request but it appears that they did eventually since they decided to advertise for a new professional.
Stirling Boys Brigade assisted at the gates and the club decided to donate £2 to their funds. Profits on teas was £15.
The A.G.M. was held on March 15th.
1930 From November 1929 new rentals for use of the ground were:- Rugby Club £14 Ladies Hockey £7. The High School Rugby were to use the pavilion, subject to a guarantee that any damage would be made good. They were also required not to cross the cricket square. Ladies Hockey were to use the small pavilion.
Grazing on the ground was let to Polmaise Estate for £16.
The annual subscription was retained at £1.10.0. and entrance to the ground at 6p.
A junior section was formed for those not exceeding 16 years, the subscription to be £0.10.0.. They could use the practice nets on Monday and Thursday until June 18th, thereafter on any evening when the ground was available.
Professional Croskey having been released, on advertising, Pearson of Skegness and Johnson of Keele were included on a short list, but eventually R.H.Moulton was engaged at £5 per week until May when he was released at his request and was replaced by Mr Pell. New sight screens were purchased for £19.10.0.
The A.G.M. was held on March 24th.
1931 The agreement with Stenhousemuir was continued. The games at the Tryst were against Fifeshire and Perthshire. Late in the year Stenhousemuir indicated that they could not continue the arrangement in 1932 due to difficulty in raising club sides when assisting in forming county sides.
At a late season meeting, the Treasurer reported that several 1931 subscriptions were outstanding.
A decision was made to revise the Club Rules and Bye Laws.
The A.G.M. was held on March 31st.
1932 The agreement with Stenhousemuir had ended and tribute was paid to them for the loyal way they had carried out their part of the bargain.
A report indicates that it was agreed to instal a telephone in the pavilion for one year as a trial measure. (There is no record of what happened to the one installed in 1908.)
The annual subscription was retained at £1.10.0 and lockers were to be put in order and rented out to players at £0.2.6 per annum.
Again a horse was organised. (Presumably for the heavy roller and grasscutter .)
It was noted that in this season, no team had scored more than 200 runs in an innings against the first XI. Could the fact that the return of Mr G.T.Whurr after four years with Perthshire and the "transfer" of W.CIark from Aberdeen have been responsible?
A report in the Stirling Observer included:- "Among the new faces at Williamfield this year will be W.Ciark late of Aberdeenshire, a first class wicketkeeper, who should prove an acquisition to the club in this position. This certainly was a post that needed strengthening and when I say that I cast no reflection on his predecessors."
The A.G.M. was held on March 14th.
1933 At the A.G.M. on March 20th, various suggestions were raised including the sale of score cards and asking members to look after the gate. It was agreed to send a circular letter to those who were likely to assist in these tasks. A season ticket at £0 7.6. to admit the holder to the ground, access to the enclosure to be extra. It was also agreed that juniors would be entitled to play in matches if required. The annual subscription was to remain unchanged and a Barman was to be employed for Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday afternoons at a wage of £0.10.0. per week
A "stopwatch card competition raised £60.0.11.
Barkham, the professional, approached the club with the suggestion that the club should employ him for 52 weeks at £3 per week on a three year contract, to carry out repairs in the winter. He was offered a contract for one year only, but refused to accept it. He was offered a contract at £5 per week for the cricket season only. He accepted. He proved to be a successful Professional, scoring 1012 runs in the season and took 47 wickets. In the match against Clackmannan on July 29th, he took 8 wickets for 7 runs. After a friendly game against Forfarshire Select, Stirling Captain, G.T.Wharr presented Barkham with the ball concerned, mounted in silver in recognition of the occasion.
At the beginning of the season it was suggested that 'the scores during First XI games should be indicated to the spectators but the idea was left to be considered another year because of the expense of more important matters".
On July 22nd, in a match against Stenhousemuir, Clark and Barkham featured in a first wicket partnership, scoring 233 runs, dark scoring 102 not out and Barkham 124 not out.
1934 The increase in the size of the wicket included in the official rules of the game in 1927, was introduced to all County and Strathmore Union games this season. (Height 28", width 9", two bails 4 1/2 " each.)
Aberdeenshire engaged Alma Hunt as their professional, the first coloured professional in Scotland.
W.CIark consented to captain and look after third XI games during the week to encourage and improve their interest.
On May 26th, batting against Aberdeenshire, R.Marshall scored 100 not out in a total of 230 for 9 wickets. Aberdeenshire scored 58 all out. Marshall also took 2 wickets for 14 runs.
A Scottish Counties second XI championship, suggested a few years ago, was to be run in two sections this year, the section winners to play a deciding game at the end of the season. Sections consisted of Perth, Forfar and Aberdeen in one and Clackmannan, Fifeshire, Stirling and West Lothian in the other.
A team selected to represent Scottish Counties against Sir Julian Cahns XI included three Stirling Players, J.F.Jones, J.B.Jones and W.CIark.
At a meeting on August 6th, the Committee agreed to employ Barkham for one year after the expiry of his 1934 contract, at £3 per week. A works committee was to be formed to supervise his work.
In the English County cricket scene, Jack Hobbs scored his 197th century and at the end of the season retired.
1935 At the A.G.M. on 18th March it was agreed to reduce the cost of teas to players to £0.1.0.
Barkham, the professional handed in a letter of resignation on the first of July, which was accepted. It was understood that he was to be employed by Dollar Academy as cricket coach. He was a prolific scorer while with Stirling, scoring over 1,000 runs in 1934 and over 800 in 1935, including 119 not out against Aberdeenshire in 1935.
Barkham and Capt. J.B. Jones featured strongly in a heavy scoring period up to July 6th, Stirling recording 649 runs for the loss of 6 wickets against Clackmannan, Aberdeenshire and Fifeshire, Jones scoring 42,92 and 56 while Barkham scored 119 not out, 74 and 95.
On a different note, Cricket Chat in the Stirling Journal on 3rd August 1935 after the last game of the season, commented:- "It was unfortunate that so many of the regulars should find it necessary to call off .because of the fact that Ayr, (bottom of the Western Union League) should be able to account for Stirling so easily ,will result in invidious comparisons between County Championship and Western Union cricket." Stirling County Second XI won the Second XI championship.
W.CIark played inside right for Scotland amateur XI against Ireland at Ibrox.
1936 In March it was decided that the motor mower was beyond repair and approval was give for the purchase of a second one. To improve income it was agreed to run a sweep stake on the two highest scores every Saturday and to arrange for a man with an advertising trolley to parade (in town) on Friday afternoon and Saturday mornings to advertise games.
A dance was to be organised in October to raise funds and in a further attempt to improve the situation it was agreed to run a bazaar and to arrange a fete in June 1937. In addition it was proposed to have a new form of membership without voting power, at £0.10.0. per year.
The charge for teas to be raised to £0.1.6..
Ben Flint, the new professional, had played for Nottinghamshire County ten years ago and more recently in Bolton and Liverpool leagues with considerable success. Flint was playing in Nottinghamshire second XI when Larwood was in the County nursery. Flint was engaged for the cricket season for £6 per week and was allocated the match against Clackmannan on August 1st for his benefit match.
After a match against Aberdeenshire, Stirling were in receipt of compliment from a reporter. "Stirling bowled and fielded well and showed themselves fine sportsmen. They wasted no time, on the contrary they changed (ends) so quickly in the field that they were able to send down 56 overs in 143 minutes whereas it took Aberdeenshire 185 minutes to bowl 57 overs, and this when it was very much to their advantage to "take their time"."
1937 On the 1st March, a letter was received from Mrs Buntine of Torbrex House, (the owner of Williamfield) agreeing to extend the lease from 1939 to 1944. An offer to lease the ground for grazing by cattle for £8 for the winter, an alternative being to lease it for grazing by sheep for £5. No record as to which was accepted.
At the Scottish Counties A.G.M. an objection was made to the ex professional Barkham playing for Clackmannan as an amateur. It was later decided to permit him to play as an amateur, but only if all the counties agreed at the A.G.M. ,but it was not to be taken as a precedent.
The club proposed to run a bar but the local Sheriff required various amendments to be made to the club rules before he would approve a club liquor licence.
Headlines in a local paper. "Carlton player out to an amazing catch" "Winning the toss, Carlton opened the innings with Croskey (professional) and Dr Phillips. With the score at 9 Intin sent down a fast ball which rebounded off Croskey's bat and struck R.Marshal, in the slips, on the top of the head and Clark running to the injured man's assistance caught the ball. Dr Philips left the field to attend to Marshal in the pavilion." Marshal was able to return later in the Carlton innings and eventually in Stirling's innings scored the winning hit. (Carlton 75 Stirling 112/9.)
August 31st. An offer of £6.10.o. per game for 1938 was made to Johnstone to be the professional.
1938 At the A.G.M. reference was made to the death of Major Wilson of Haypark, Polmont, who had been Secretary for 21 years over a period of 26 years (1898 to 1923)
In April a new mower was purchased for £104. An offer of £1 for grazing by horse and use of the horse was accepted.
A notice was to be posted requiring players to be present to start the match at the time advertised. July 5th. Professional Johnstone was offered terms for 1939 as for 1938. He would be permitted to play two mid-week matches for Morpeth.
November. The club delayed a decision on subscribing to the National Playing Fields Association. In a newspaper report on the season it was considered that the weather had been the worst for many seasons. Johnstone took 80 wickets but team averages could not be given as the score book had been lost.
At the A.G.M. on March 14th. the Secretary Mr. McEwen commented on the financial success of the garden fete held in June (£37), the success of a concert dance venture organised by Mr Kennedy, and thanked the ladies for their successful tea arrangements at home matches. The Treasurer commented on the very large increase in revenue caused by the introduction of the non playing membership.
1939 The Atco Mower Company were prepared to service the mower for £4.5.0. The committee thought that this was excessive and agreed for the mower to be serviced by Morrisons, Whins of Milton.
May 6th A fete was held and resulted in a credit balance of £80.
May 23rd The club received a letter from the late Mrs Buntine's estate stating that the trustees were prepared to sell Williamfield to the club for £2350 and was prepared to arrange a loan of £1750 at 4% interest. It was calculated that this would raise the annual expenditure on the ground from £120 to £170. It was suggested that part of the increase might be obtained by raising the rents payable by clubs to whom the field was sub let. The Treasurer informed the Committee that a club member had offered to advance £2350 on security of the ground at 3% interest for ten years also for every £10 subscribed by members he would write off £1.
A General Meeting was called for June 6th with the recommendation that the club should accept the offer. At the meeting the Chairman moved acceptance of the "anonymous" member's offer. The offer was accepted. The Chairman then suggested that members be asked to guarantee £5 or £3 per guarantor for a period of ten years - only to be asked for if the financial position made it necessary.
June 20th Terms of entry were agreed to be Whit Sunday 1939 as suggested by the sellers agents. It was agreed to appoint Trustees from among club members to hold title and to authorise the trustees to borrow on security of the subject. Trustees nominated were C.H.Lockhart, J.Bruce Jones, R.N.Dun, and Dr. P.F.MacFarlane. The Club President Mr Charles W.Forbes offered to give £20 per year towards the cost of interest.
July 22 Club Solicitors explained that if the title was in the names of the Trustees it would lead to technical complications. It was agreed to recommend that the title should take the form of an absolute disposition in favour of Mr James Herbert Wilson (the anonymous lender hitherto) qualified by a "Back Letter" setting forth the terms of the loan and other necessary terms and that Mr C.S.Kennedy (Secretary) be authorised to sign on behalf of the club.
A full report of the General Meeting was included in a local newspaper on 6/6/39 (W.CIark's papers)
W.J.Intin for 34 years a regular player for the club, retired from active playing in a game played at the end of the season.
An interesting note in a newspaper cutting dated 9/5/39 indicates that "Williamfield is one of the best appointed cricket grounds in Scotland and has an unequalled setting. It was bought by the late Mrs Buntine, the owner of Torbrex House when there was the possibility of the ground being feud for building purposes.”
For many years the side batting second did not stop playing when they had passed their opponents score. However a new rule was adopted this season by the Counties Association. "No score shall be registered in the score book after the winning hit has been made. This does not mean that the game must finish. They can carry on as long as they like for the entertainment of the spectators." "Hitherto when a match has been won and play continued, a batsman has used an abandon which has brought him runs and exaggerated his averages, while on the other hand it has ruined the analysis of a good bowler."
On June 20th the professional Johnstone was offered terms for 1940 with a benefit to be the match against Fifeshire at Williamfield.
1940 The Match Secretary reported that he had arranged provisionally for several matches to be played but as there would be no Counties Championship all matches would be classed as club matches. (Friendlies)
It was agreed to propose at the A.G.M. that as many matches as possible be played and to grant facilities to those members of the forces interested in cricket for practice in the nets and also to invite players in the district to participate in match play. Club members in the forces allowed full playing membership free of subscription.
At the A.G.M. on March 28th, the Committee recommended that office bearers be re elected for the duration of hostilities. No professional was to be engaged for the forthcoming season and a groundsman was to be employed at a wage to be negotiated by the Secretary, for not more than £3.10.0 per week.
On the Chairman's casting vote it was agreed to ask conscientious objectors to resign.
The use of Williamfield was offered to the High School Athletic Union for £12.10.0. as the adjacent field purchased by the school was not suitable for cricket for some time to come.
The Treasurer reported a debit balance of £295.
The groundsman was to be offered £1.10.0 per week for Winter ground maintenance.
A newspaper report:- "Stirling County Cricket Club is more eager than ever to encourage cricket among the pupils of Stirling schools. The Club Committee was to approach the Education Committee to point out that many boys at school in Stirling would like to play cricket and the Club would be pleased to consider any scheme for developing a love of the game in schools."
1941 At the A.G.M. on March 30th it was agreed that as quite a number of playing members were available matches and practice should be carried out. About twelve matches had been arranged provisionally.
The collections at matches played in 1940 (£14.7.9) was contributed to the War Relief Fund.
The Secretary was required to write to the O.C.R.E. complaining of some damage to the pavilion and to enquire if it could be de requisitioned.
June 18th. At a meeting the principle item on the agenda for discussion was the playing of cricket on Sundays at Williamfield. This privilege having been given to troops stationed locally, it was agreed to be allowed to continue, providing the players were members of the services. The groundsman had indicated that he was prepared to attend on Sundays, unpaid, but the Committee was unanimous that some remuneration should be made to him. The Secretary was to make suitable arrangements with the service personnel playing.
The club had been informed that it was to receive an annual payment of £25 for the use of the two Pavilions, from the War Department.
The Secretary was to agree a payment to the groundsman for Winter ground maintenance.
1942 March 30th. The groundsman was engaged on a weekly basis. The need for economy in the use of petrol was stressed. The possibility of obtaining the use of a horse drawn mower from Clifford House was considered. The Committee discussed the advisability of carrying on activities for another war time season in view of a number of facts:-
1) The poor state of finances and the possibility of a deficit.
2) The availability of players to form sides.
3) The problems in arranging fixtures and of arranging catering.
The club was to continue to charge rent for grazing (£8), use by the High School (£12.10.0) and by agreement with any military units. Facilities were still to be free to the forces.
At the subsequent A.G.M. it was agreed to carry on for the season.
September. The High School rent was reduced to £5 as no cricket was played. Rents from the RAOC and Stirling Town Council were £5 and from Stirling Burgh Squadron of the ATC was £1.1.0.
The sum of £0.10.0. was received from the War Department in respect of wire entanglements on Williamfield. Arrangements were agreed for the use of the ground for the decontamination of food stuffs if damaged by gas.
J.Harper Wilson (Chairman) offered to carry the overdraft of £300 by lending the club the sum. The offer was accepted.
This year a game was reported which went one better (or worse) than the game between Stirling and Grangemouth in 1928, under the headlines "DUCK DOWNS"
" In these dark hours, England's cricketers can reflect that things could have gone worse. A preparatory school XI was out for O."
The match report comes from Sir Peter Gadsden, former Lord Mayor of London and a one time fast bowler. On May 14th 1942, he was opening the attack for his school, The Elms, Colwall, (Herefordshire) against their great rivals The Downs. I finished with 5 for 0, as did my fellow opening bowler, recalled Gadesden yesterday. Even "extras" so often top scorer in preparatory school cricket, registered a duck. Who can say what emotions surged that day in the breast of the master i/c cricket for the Downs? irritation, perhaps, as the first couple of wickets tumbled. Growing horror as the middle order trudged back to the pavilion. And then as the tail crumbled, perhaps a tick in the eye and the beginnings of a high pitched laugh.
1943 For this season 16 matches were arranged but in the event only 11 were played, six being won and 3 lost. A.G.M. March 29th. It was agreed to continue to play cricket this season, endeavouring to keep travelling to a minimum.
Also in March it was noted that the two pavilions had been damaged by military occupation. The Garrison Engineer had executed certain temporary repairs to windows, etc.. A claim was to be made to cover complete repairs.
Borestone Thistle F.C. was leased the ground which had previously been leased to the High School rugby team.
October 4th Thanks for hospitality received in respect of the use of the ground were received from the Officers, N.C.O.s and men of the R.E.M.E.
1944 At the AGM on March 27th Mr. Hooper, Treasurer, reported a credit balance of£42.8.7. The Secretary reported that the club was indebted to the Military Personnel stationed in the district for the assistance received.
The Chairman referred to the great loss the club had sustained by the death in action of Captain J.Bruce Jones.
On a happier note Major James Forbes Jones (brother of Capt J.Bruce Jones) was chosen to play for an Anglo Scottish XI on August 16th, at Kilmarnock. Teams included Leary M.Constantine (West Indies Captain) and G.Duckworth (Lancashire and England).
Mr Lockart and Mr CLark were to approach the Director of Education with a view to putting Williamfield at the disposal of those boys who were interested in cricket, for the purpose of cricket practice. Success must have been achieved as a report at the end of the season reported" the coaching scheme which was inaugurated during the playing season was agreed to have been a success and to recover half the cost Mr Clark was to be asked to meet the Director of Education with this in view." (Boys from Stirling High School and Riverside School) The services of the professional had been at the disposal of some 18 boys at each session. Club members had been responsible for ground maintenance.
At a meeting on September 21st, the Committee approved the lease of the Football Pitch to Borestone Thistle and Youth House F.C. The pavilion was not included.
1945 At the A.G.M. on April 6th, the Chairman congratulated the office bearers on their reports and was grateful to those members who had carried through their respective duties and thereby kept cricket alive during a very difficult time.
The match secretary reported that he had arranged a representative match for June 25th against Mr LN. Constantine's XI. On a motion by Mr F.Crockart, the meeting unanimously agreed to remit to the Committee to consider the advisability of a guarantee fund to cover possible loss accruing from the visit of Mr Constantine's XI.
Approval was given to lease the ground to the Cadet Force, the Youth Committee and to St Modans H.S.F/P. athletic club.
At a meeting on July 9th the Secretary was required to contact the Secretaries of other clubs taking part in the Counties Championship with the aim of finding out if a resumption of the Championship next season was considered practical. Arrangements were made for a meeting of the County Championship Committee at the end of September. On October 10th, Mr Clark and Mr Kennedy who attended the meeting reported that the Championship was to be resumed in 1946.. At the same meeting it was agreed to continue the boys coaching scheme in 1946.
The Stirling Ladies Hockey Club was granted use of the tea pavilion for changing purposes. St Ninians Public School was granted use of the football pitch during school hours.
1946 March 26th Arrangements were confirmed for a match against Mr L.ConstantinesXI at the Arns on Sunday June 23rd and at Williamfield on Monday 24th June.
At the A.G.M. on April 1st the Secretary reported on the greater success in 1945 than in 1944 , of the coaching scheme, sixty boys attending with coach Mr F.Reynolds.
The Social Section had arranged with the "folks of Torbrex" a celebration of V.J. Day (on August 15th 1945), in the tea pavilion. They also arranged to celebrate V.J. Day plus one. Both were very successful and provided impulses required to bring electric lighting to the pavilion to a successful completion. During the winter months, whist drives, dances and the first Burns Supper were held in the pavilion. The Social Section presented a balance sheet with a profit of £103.0.4.
Mr Porter had contacted a Mr Dennis to serve as professional but he had already been engaged by Stalybridge.
April 10th. Despite the possibility that Mr Constantine might not be in the team for June 24th, it was agreed to go ahead as previously arranged.
A Ground Committee was appointed to administer Groundwork, Pavilion, Repairs and replenishing of playing gear. It was agreed to continue to charge £0,1.0. for entry to the ground for County games and to uplift a collection for other games.
Approval was given to the use of the ground for a sports meeting on Wednesday 15th May by Stirling District Youth Panel..
Mr Porter offered to supply piping for gas from Torbrex Lane to the Tea Pavilion plus a gas cooker and Mr Kennedy offered to connect up. The offers were accepted with thanks.
May 13th The High School requested use of the ground on June 18th for Sports Day. It was agreed to grant the privilege.
A sub committee was formed and debuted to meet representatives of Stenhousemuir to consider possible inclusion of Stenhousemuir players in the team for County Matches, to make it a truly representative County Team. (Earlier efforts had had problems over venue of matches. Fifeshire had similar problems.)
W.CIark was congratulated on his appointment as Captain of the Scottish XI to meet the Indian XI at Myreside on 22nd and 23rd May.
High School pupils were permitted to practise with club members during the summer vacation.
May 21st - The schoolboy coaching scheme Stirling Youth Service Committee recommended that the club be paid £20.
For the match against Constantine's XI on June 24th it was agreed to invite no more than five guest players to join the County team.
September 27th. The Committee considered two applicants for the post of professional in 1947.
The voting was 9 for Pierpoint and 6 for Dennis. It was agreed to engage Pierpoint to. combine the posts of professional cricketer and groundsman, at a wage of £9 per week
1947 March 18th A letter was received from Mr Pierpoint asking to be allowed to withdraw from his obligation to fulfil the duties of professional/groundsman, as he had been seriously ill and felt that he would not be able to render justice to the club.
Stirling County Council wished to purchase 0.22 acres of land next to St Ninians School to erect a school meals hut. lt was agreed subject to an undertaking by the County Council that a brick wall be erected to enclose the area before building the hut.
At the A.G.M. on March 27th, Mr Porter suggested that it might be possible to contact 20 men to put up £100 each to cover the outstanding debt on the ground.
The possibility of Sunday cricket was raised by Mr W.MacArthur. Voting was 17 for and 21 against.
March 29th. It was agreed that coaching was to be the same as in previous years if the Education Department agreed to pay a grant.
Sunday Cricket. A motion was put forward:- "that the club have nothing to do with Sunday Cricket, either at Williamfield or elsewhere. The Press was to be asked to publish unanimous agreement with the motion."
April 29th. The club agreed to engage Mr W.J.Dennis (related to Dennis of Stalybridge). In 1946 he had scored 400 runs and taken 38 wickets. Agreement was unanimous.
June 19th. Net practice - a complaint was voiced that coaching appeared to be directed mainly to the first XI. The second XI members were not getting a chance.
At various meetings the methods of raising funds were regularly discussed, involving dances, whist drives, sports meetings, etc..'
1948 At the A.G.M on March 23rd a financial statement showed a surplus for 1947 of £96.17.4. plus an Income Tax refund of £59. The result was that the debit balance of £172.2.8. at March 15th 1947 was now reduced to £16.5.4.
The Social Section had raised £240.17.6 which was now deposited in Stirling Savings bank.
St Ninians Meal Hut. As the County Council could not agree to build a wall round the hut and proposed to erect a stob and wire fence, the club could not agree the sale. The County Council then obtained a Compulsory Purchase Order, but the club appealed against it to the Secretary of State. An Enquiry was set for March Sth. The club had engaged a solicitor.
(On July 9th the Chairman informed members that the Enquiry held in March had gone in favour of the club.)
A motion was raised :- A half yearly General Meeting shall be held in September each year. The motion was carried..
24 clothing coupons were received from the Honorary Secretary of the County Cricket Board to be used for umpire coats.
The cricket lockers in the home dressing room were to be repaired and a rent of £0.2.6. per season was to be charged.
The club was now in the position to pay off the balance due of the temporary loan of £300 made by Mr J.H.Wilson to meet a bank overdraft. Action to pay off the loan was agreed.
The use of the ground for the High School Sports was approved for June 16th.
At a meeting on April 27th the Committee agreed to an Insurance Policy by Sun Insurance office to cover players against accidental bodily injury sustained within the limits of the ground or pavilion as a result of taking part in matches or practice.
The professional W.J.Dennis was to be offered a selection of winter jobs (not for the club). His benefit for 1948 amounted to £135. It was reported that some clubs had approached him without the club's permission Subsequently, on August 19th, he agreed to a three year engagement at £10 per week plus a guaranteed benefit of £50.
At a General Meeting there was discussion as to how to reduce the outstanding bond on the Ground, which amounted to £2,185 Various suggestions included:-
a) a subscription list.
b) a fete and work fair.
c) dances to be arranged in the Albert Hall.
It was reported that the boundary hedge was in need of trimming. It was estimated that it would take two weeks and the assistant groundsman was to be kept on for the two weeks.
At a Social Evening on September 23rd, the guest of honour was W.J.Dennis who was congratulated on taking 100 wickets in the season.
1949 A set of "Rules and Bye-laws of the Stirling County Cricket Club" is available and is included as an appendix. It is interesting to note the first rule which states:- "The Club shall be called the Stirling County Cricket Club and shall consist of Gentlemen residing in, or connected with the County of Stirling."
March 2nd. It was reported that arrangements were completed for a tour of Highland Clubs (in June) at a cost of £10 each.
The club withdrew from the Falkirk mid-week league, as time limit games were not conducive to good cricket.( Recommendation that the games should be played on Saturdays under normal conditions, clearly was not approved by the league.)
Col Forbes agreed to continue for ten years the Bond of Annuity granted by his father.
The usual use of the ground facilities were granted to the High School.
At the A.G.M. on March 30th the players subscription was raised from £1.10.0 to £2.
Non playing members subscription was raised from £0 10.0. to £1. In respect of St Ninians School it was understood that the County Council was to erect a wall round the new School Meal hut.
At a meeting on April 19th it was agreed to continue the club's players insurance.
The gate entrance fee was to be £0.1.6. for County games only.
Stirling Ladies Hockey team was permitted to use the tea pavilion during the hockey season.
Reduction of the outstanding loan. A firm was to publish 2000 copies of the official handbook for free - sales to be at no less than 1/-. An appeal had raised £207 and with the help of the Social Committee it was agreed to repay £500. A fete and a match was arranged for Wednesday July 20th, the match to be between S.CIark's Amateur XI and Dennis's Professional XI. (Cricket Fair)
It had been noted that the BBC was to broadcast a commentary on part of the West Lothian match at Linlithgow. Advertised as an "Old Folk Treat" a match was arranged between SCCC and Stirling Albion. On August 25th the result of the Cricket Fair on July 20th was that a total of £549.16.7. was raised. This was made up of Cricket Fair £241.11.2, Pony Trot £79.5.3. , and Public Subscription £229.0.2.. It was suggested that the Social Committee should add from their balance to raise the total to £750. 0n September 13th the Social Committee agreed to donate £250 to the appeal fund to raise it to £800. This was approved on September 28th. It was also agreed to continue the monthly whist drives through the winter.
The Club Committee refused an application to build a house on the ground as it was considered it would spoil the ground.
At a meeting on September 28th the Secretary was instructed to advise the agents for
Mr.H.Wilson's Trustees that it was desired to repay £800 at Martinmas.
The Club was to request a direct electricity supply rather than at present from the street lighting circuit. At the Bi-annual General Meeting the payment of £800 was approved, leaving an outstanding debt of £1385.
It was agreed to arrange a tour of Border Clubs next year in June, members being requested to wear the Club tie (Cherry, Plum and White.)
There was still a problem with Mr MacLaughlin's horses, one being on the square.
It was noted with regret that Mr Dennis had applied for a post at Dollar School. It was later agreed to release him from his contract. (December 21)
Mr C.Conally (Australian) was to be the professional for 1950.
1950 At the A.G.M. on March 1st Mr W.MacArthur proposed "that this meeting seriously consider the question of playing cricket on Sundays at Williamfield." Mr W Clark opposed the proposal - he stated that he would not take part in cricket on Sundays. He further stated that two years ago when the same question was raised quite a few members informed him that they would not hesitate to withdraw their membership in the event of Sunday cricket being introduced. It was decided to hold a special meeting to consider Sunday cricket. (Vote 16 for, 5 against.) At the special meeting the voting For Sunday cricket at Williamfield 14, Against 25.
Arrangements for a tour of the Borders on June 25th to July 1st had been completed.
It was agreed to grant the High School the usual facilities for use of the ground.
Mr W.CIark intimated that in co-operation with the professional he would organise coaching for boys.
It was proposed to organise a "Pony Trot" in May providing the Town Council were able to grant use of a field for the purpose. Unfortunately no field was obtained.
Funds raised during the season permitted the sum of £400 to be applied to reduce the outstanding debt which was thus reduced to £985.
A 7 a side competition was proposed for local teams, limited to one current playing member per side. Matches were to be played in evenings (Monday and Wednesday) consisting of ten eight ball overs, played on a knock out basis. The resulting winners were Stirling Merchants with Torbrex as runners up. As a result a profit of £100 was made.
It was agreed to allow the use of the ground on Sunday 9th July by the Scottish Aeromodellers Association for a Control Line Gala Day.
It was decided to continue the Winter programme of Whist Drives.
A Fair and Sports Day confined to clubs in Stirling and Clackmannan raised £300 on July 12th.
1951 At a meeting on February 26th a comment was made:- "It was the view that reference should be made to the apathy of members to the efforts promoted by the Social Committee."
At the A.G.M. it was agreed to form a Third XI to provide playing facilities for those members who do not qualify for the First XI or Second XI. After the meeting members viewed Len Hutton's instructional batting film.
On the recommendation of the Strathmore professional. the services of I.Iffla were obtained.
At a meeting on March 21st the Auditor drew attention to the large number of members who had not paid their subscription.
A summer tour based on Elgin was arranged to play Elgin, Nairn, Forres, Buckie and Huntley in June.
At the end of the season a letter of thanks was received from R.F.Roe. He thanked Stirling County Cricket Club for permitting I. Iffla to play for the London East Indies Wanderers XI. Iffla and Ramahadin bowled out the Club Cricket Conference XI . Iffla ended with 5 wickets for 26. R.F.Roe stated that he could not pay him higher praise than that there was nothing to choose between him and Ramadhin.
1952 This was the year that the club won the County Championship
At the A.G.M. it was proposed and approved that Stenhousemuir be asked to co-operate in selection of teams for County Championship games. As they unanimously rejected the proposal it was agreed that there would be no useful purpose in pursuing the matter further.
On July 2nd a crowd of 3000 attended at Williamfield for Iffla's benefit match against Perthshire.
The summer tour took place in June based in Galashiels. Teams played were Hawick, St Boswells, Wilton, Galashiels, Selkirk and Peebles.
The success of the season was in no small measure due to the efforts of Iffla. He scored 506 at an average of 24.09 and took 114 wickets at 8.38 apiece. In the Championship he took 42 wickets at an average of 9.85, supported by C.Yorston who took 23 wickets for 11.22 apiece in the Championship.
On Saturday October 25th a dinner was held in the Golden Lion Hotel to celebrate winning the Scottish Counties Championship.
On November 26th there was a Civic Reception and Dinner at the Golden Lion Hotel with Provost Walters in the Chair. The Town Council decided to present the club with a flagpole and to present Irwin Iffla with a cricket ball mounted on a silver plate.
An eight verse poem was produced in honour of the successful season.
1953 Mr Walter Bain presented the club with a new flag to be unfurled on the flagpole presented by Stirling Town Council. This took place on the 15th May, when Mrs Forbes, wife of Lt-Col Wm.C.Forbes of Callendar, Patron of the club, officiated. The flag was presented in recognition of the club's success in 1952.
On Saturday 5th June there was an unusual climax to the match between Stirling and West Lothian. "Stumps were drawn and everyone was back in the pavilion, thankful to get out of the torrential rain which fell in the closing minutes, when skipper W.CIark discovered that a mistake had been made in the scoring and Stirling had finished one run short of the visitor's total of 108 instead of 109 as had been shown on the scoreboard. The mistake had occurred through one of the umpires earlier in the game signalling a drive by Willie MacArthur first as a six and then as a boundary hit. The scorers had failed to catch the second signal and MacArthur was credited with a six, knocking the total out by two runs. The skippers of the two sides consulted with the umpires and it was agreed to resume the game in order to keep everything above board. By this time the players had changed and took the field in civilian clothes. A.Paris even wearing a soft hat, while wicket keeper Watson was minus pads and gloves. Willie Drysdale faced the bowling and put the score beyond doubt by collecting a 4 and a 2."
Report from the Stirling Sentinel of 21.7.53.
Six hundred spectators watched the exciting clash between Stirling County and the "Big County" (Perthshire) but when it was clear that professional Iffla was going through the home side (Perthshire) like water through a sieve, he (Iffla) became the target for the worst and most foul mouthed opprobrium ever heard on the cricket field. The obscenity hurled at him by cowards round the boundary line, who referred to the professional's colour was nauseating in the extreme. After the game the umpires were escorted off the field by Perthshire officials."
At a meeting on September 1st, the Committee agreed to reduce the ground debt to £700 the sum necessary being obtained from the Appeal Fund and the Social fund.
1954 Prior to the A.G.M. on March 3rd, a plebiscite was organised to assess the interest in Sunday Cricket.- A total of 289 forms were issued to club members, from which they received 118 replies. Of these 75 were for and 43 against including 8 players for and 7 against.
At the A.G.M. Mr C.Stewart Kennedy raised the possibility of Sunday cricket, suggesting that four games be played between May 2nd and August 29th. Several motions, some for and some against were proposed. Eventually a vote was taken by a show of hands, the result being 12 members for Sunday cricket and 13 against. It was agreed that Sunday cricket at Williamfield be not permitted.
At the A.G.M. a ball was presented to D.Macgowan, one of the young playing members, in recognition of a "hat trick" against Paton and Baldwins on August 11th 1953.
At a General meeting on September 29th, reference was made to Irwin Iffla's record over the last four seasons. Batting Average 24.0, 24.0, 38.93, and 31.08.
Bowling Average 7.86, 8.38, 9,03, and 9.06.
C.Yorston's Bowling Average :-10.15,14.84,10.63 and 11.59.
Of the overs bowled it was recorded that a third were "maidens".
Young Sandy Bruce played his first game in the County Championship.
A Daily Express report on 14th July 1954.
"Irwin Iffla of Jamaica, one of the most colourful of cricket professionals in Scotland, has been paid a remarkable tribute by his club Stirling County. They have asked him to stay with them until 1960. So Iffla, who is now thirty, has signed a five year contract which will not come into effect till the end of the next season, which is when his current engagement ends. Iffla has had his biggest success as a bowler - slow medium, leg and off breaks with full command of flight. As a batsman he is most entertaining, fast between the wickets and full of enterprise and strokes. He also fields brilliantly.
1955 club was runner up in the County Championship
In a match against Perth on 19th May, Perth batted first and scored 147/6 in 187 minutes. lt then rained for 78 minutes leaving Stirling 68 minutes in which they scored 39 72.
Playing against Grange on 20th June, Iffla scored 105 and took 7 wickets for 24 runs. Match scores were Stirling 209/6 and Grange 72.
The match against Perth at Williamfield on 26th June was taken as the benefit game for Irwin Iffla. Stirling Journal in its Notes and Comments section referring to Iffla commented “He has brought new life to cricket in the district and by his performances has brought Stirling more prominence than would normally be accorded to the town. Iffla's cricket is of the type which attracts the crowds. His recent performances mark him down as having no superior in Scotland and not so many elsewhere.”
Match Scores :-Perth 225/5 Stirling 124/9. Match drawn.
In the game W.CIark scored 52 and won a bat offered by Vice President Doug. Palmer to any player scoring 50 against Perth.
1956 March 7th A tour to the north was approved for the first week in July.
In a match against West Lothian the absence of the eleventh man foiled a bowling feat. Stirling took first use of the pitch and scored 171 runs. When West Lothian batted, Iffla was in sparkling form and took 9 wickets for 17 runs out of a total of 56. Unfortunately one West Lothian player left the ground at the end of Stirling's innings to travel to Abington to attend a school holiday camp. As a result Iffla did not have the opportunity to take the full ten wickets in one innings. This took place on 19th July.
On 24th July it was recorded that Stirling playing Clackmannan scored 160 runs. Clackmannan were skittled out for 21 runs, which then was the record low score in the County Championship.
In July Stirling played a South Australian Tourist team, scoring 97 runs to which the Tourists replied with 98 for 9 wickets.
Iffla topped the bowling and batting averages for the season. He took 106 wickets and his total for six seasons now reached over 600.
Willie Clark indicated that he intended to retire at the end of the season. In his last game against Forfar he scored 46. He had completed 30 years in first class cricket.
It was noted that the ground debt had reduced from £2,000 to £600 since the war.
In a photograph of the side for the first match of the season it is noted that D.Macgowan was included and in fact made the top score of 24 in a total of 108. West of Scotland scored 136 for 8 declared.
1957 " A worthy culminating honour in a cricketing career of many years has come the way of Mr William Clark of Stirling County Cricket Club.. Last Wednesday he was appointed president of the Scottish Cricket Union. Willie was capped for amateur Scotland at soccer in 1935 when playing for Falkirk Amateurs. He was a Scottish internationalist at cricket and had the honour of captaining Scotland against Yorkshire, India and Ireland."
For the second time in four years the Williamfield XI had won the Second Counties Southern Area championship and were narrowly beaten by Forfar in the play-off.
Playing for Sir John Hay's Scotland XI at Mannofield in a game against the English County Champions, Surrey, Iffia scored 42 runs in the first innings (out of 120) and 10 in the second Innings. (out of 95). Surrey scored 242.
Membership of the club was in the region of 450 as result of a drive for non playing members.
1958 At the A.G.M. on March 5th the Chairman remarked that this could be referred to as an "historical occasion" as apart from some formalities to be completed, Williamfield now belongs to Stirling County Cricket Club, free of debt.
A small corner of the ground in Torbrex corner was sold to the Education Committee for the construction of a pavilion and rifle range, for the sum of £40.
At a committee meeting on August 25th, it was reported that architects had been seen measuring the ground (without permission). The possible acquisition of about 3 acres for an extension to St Ninians School, was the subject raised.
The High School F.P's Hockey club was granted use of the tea pavilion, subject to keeping it clean and repairing any possible damage.
"Down at Lords, as President of the Scottish Cricket Union, Willie Clark, the well known Stirling cricketer, made an unexpected comeback when one of the Scottish team did not turn up for the Scotland versus M.C.C. match. He had brought his cricket gear, hoping for a knock in the nets. Instead he played when D.R.Lawrence had failed to return in time from a business trip to Germany. He had a catch in the slips." (Extract from the Stirling Observer.)
1959 At the A.G.M. on March 4th, the Secretary was keen to obtain information concerning the history of the club, as he was of the opinion that the club was due to celebrate its Centenary in about three years time.
At a meeting on April 7th Stirling High School was granted permission to play evening games on Williamfield between 4 pm and 6 pm.
It was also agreed to allow R.E.M.E. Cricket Club to play about six games at Williamfield provided they kept clear of Mondays.
The club agreed to sell the approximate three acres for the extension to St Ninians School.
October 9th. The club agreed to release Irwin Iffla from his contract. He was to be offered thanks for his service to the club over the nine years he had been its professional.
Extract from the Daily Mail. "Scottish wickets were criticised by Mr W.CIark, retiring President of the Scottish Cricket Union, at the Annual General Meeting of the association ,in Edinburgh. To improve the standard of cricket in Scotland, clubs must improve their practice wickets, which are all in a very poor state. The practical difficulty is the inability to pay skilled consultants for advice about the maintenance of wickets."
Raymond Bond was elected captain of the third XI.
1960 At the A.G.M. on March 2nd the question of Sunday Cricket was again discussed on an advertised motion which stood in the names of I.Given and R.Bond. The voting was 25 for and 12 against. Immediately Mr Clark resigned as Chairman and left the meeting .Mr Bain had indicated that he would resign if the motion succeeded as had several other members.
At a meeting on June 2nd a report was given in respect of Sunday cricket and as a result new Club Bye laws were produced and subsequently approved on June 9th.
July 6th. Stirling and Clackmannan Police Club were granted use of Williamfield for a game against a select team representing the League in honour of them winning the Scottish Police Championship in 1959.
July 10th was selected as the date for the professional's benefit game when the County side would play a team selected by the professional.
July 21st. The Forth Cricket Union was formed. The formation of a junior cricket league was suggested as there was little encouragement for cricket at either the High School or Riverside School.
At a General Meeting on September 21st it was confirmed that the sale of land for an extension to St Ninians School had been completed for a sum of £1250.
An approach was received from Stirling County Rugby Club enquiring as to possible availability of facilities during the Winter for rugby.
1961 January 25th. Arrangements were in hand for the visit of an Australian Touring Team, the game to be played on July 19th. Accommodation was arranged at the Allangrange Hotel in Bridge of Allan.
At the A.G.M. on March 1st it was reported that the plans for a new Pavilion involving a cost of £5,000 was rejected in favour of a modified plan to construct a new tea pavilion.
The subject of responsibility for Torbrex Farm Road was raised. As it was within the clubs "purlieu" it was in effect private ground. The club informed the Town Council that it was not prepared to pay for the repair, but they could undertake the repair at their expense if it wished, the Right of Way to be maintained.
November 29th. It was agreed that improvements to the pavilion were desired, to include better Bar and Lounge facilities, provision of toilets, showers and of possible a professionals room. It was realised that to achieve that, it might have to be phased. The Committee decided to give the proposals due consideration.
1962 A.G.M. March 7th. This was held in the Golden Lion Hotel but subsequent A.G.M.s and General meetings were often held in the Tea Pavilion after heating had been installed.
The Secretary was required to contact Stirling Town Council concerning the abuse of Williamfield by youths using the new Beechwood Park. They had run the heavy roller over the square and into the far sightscreen, breaking a wheel on the screen. The boundary fence was not adequate and Williamfield now served as an access and egress for those using Beechwood.
June 14th. The completion of the New Tea Pavilion was held up by the failure of the plasterer to complete his work. However, completion was imminent and it was decided to invite Mr and Mrs Oswald to open it on June 30th.
September 26th. The new High School of Stirling was formally opened in June. A gap in the club fence to permit access had not been repaired.
September 26th. It was agreed to have sufficient electric points installed in the Tea Pavilion in order that heating might be installed to facilitate use for Winter functions.
November 22nd. It was agreed to have a telephone installed in the pavilion with a loud bell installed outside the pavilion.
Report in the Stirling Observer. "GRAND OLD MAN back. Another interesting feature of the match was the reappearance in the home side of veteran Willie Clark, the PETER PAN of Scottish Cricket - returned to delight spectators with another demonstration of his batting skill as number nine batsman in partnership with D.Macgowan. He scored 19, second highest to Macgowan's 67." The game against Edinburgh Academicals was a tie at 127 each.
Gate Charges. It was recommended that charges for entry to the ground on Championship days should be 2/-, later reduced to 1/6, Ladies 1/-, 6p for boys and O.A.P.S., Cars 1/-.
1963 February 28th. Work was in progress on improvements to the main pavilion, including the provision of showers and toilets.
Stirling Education Authority accepted responsibility for Torbrex Farm Road surface, lighting and fencing, although ownership remained with the club.
July 4th All work on the pavilion was not completed but it would be in time for the official opening by President Robert Marshall on 20th July.
August 1st A contract was agreed with Irwin Iffla to be professional in 1964 on a weekly basis. The contract was signed on August 30th.
General Meeting September 25th. It was reported that the main pavilion was renovated though only partly reconstructed, having been opened in July. the situation was much the same with the Tea Pavilion.
Consideration was given to the installation of an Asphalt Wicket but action was not confirmed.
A "matting wicket" was purchased and stored on the premises. Later in 1964 it was agreed to try it out on a grass surface.
1964 A.G.M. March 4th At the meeting R.Bond offered to organise a 7 a side competition, which offer was accepted. Mr McArthur proposed that playing members should be asked to provide their own equipment. The players agreed subject to the provision of equipment by the club for younger members.
May 26th Concern was expressed over the poor representation of first XI players in the Sunday teams, which was considered as affecting the prestige of the club
New sight screens were received and the account was sent to the Stirling County Council Treasurer. (Higher screens had become necessary as a result of new buildings at St Ninians and the new Stirling High School). The old screens were made available to the High School.
General Meeting September. It was reported that the 7 a side competition had been a great success and had brought great goodwill to the club.
A trial over a month of the installation of a "fruit machine" raised £52. It was proposed and approved that the club purchase one at a cost of £380.
1965 At the half yearly meeting the Secretary reported that many improvements had been effected within the pavilion, mainly by painting and the provision of furniture.
A new mower costing £70 had been purchased but a big mower costing about £400 would have to be purchased. On the finance front it was commented that increased income came from the "fruit machine" and Friendly Pools but subscriptions were down as was gate takings, the latter producing only £11... The success of the 7 a side competition had also contributed through use of the "fruit machine" and better bar returns.
1966 At the A.G.M. on March 1st the deaths were reported of Messrs Yellowlees, A.G.Oswald and G.0swald, who had all served the club very well in the past. Over winter the club had had successful Club and Burns Club dinners as well as regular Saturday Social Evenings which had proved profitable.
The treasurer commented on the reducing number of members, mainly non playing members.
1967 At the AGM on 1st March Secretary reported the County team finished 5th in the championship, I. Iffla finishing top of both bowling and batting averages.
The Treasurer reported that without the income from Friendly Pools, the Club would have had a working loss. Profit of only £100 from the bar resulted in being subject to an investigation.
1968 At the A.G.M. on March 6th arrangements were made for a 6 a side competition to be played in May, sponsorship to be by Guinness.
Cricket facilities were to be offered to students and staff at the new University of Stirling.
It was decided to set players subscriptions up from £2 to £3. Lady associates were to rise from 2/6 to 5/-.
At the General meeting on October 3rd it was reported that bar profits were £250 on a turnover of £1000.
Col. Forbes had indicated that he was willing to donate a new cup for school competition, eventually agreed to be limited to schools in Stirlingshire.
1969 At the AGM on March 5th it was suggested that "gate" payments could be replaced by selling programmes and taking a ground collection. A further suggestion was made, that a new" Life Membership" should be introduced. This was decided to be raised in Committee and was later approved.
The fact that Duncan Wright had been a member for 50 years merited some recognition.
The subject of the pavilion clock was raised, suggesting either that it should be repaired or replaced by a new clock. It was repaired by Mr A.H.Anderson.
June 3rd. A meeting was held with the High School PE teacher with the view to starting a hockey club for senior male pupils.
October 6th. The possibility of selling the ground to the County Council was to be considered in order to finance the club facilities.
1970 At the AGM on March 4th it was agreed that in future the AGM would take place on the last Wednesday in October and the half yearly GM on the first Wednesday in March.
March 19th. Concern was raised at the increased danger from vandalism and arrangements were made for members to be on guard at the pavilion on Friday and Saturday evenings. It appears that the old score box had been damaged or destroyed and enquiries were to be made in respect of the construction of a new score box. Shortly, work started on construction.
The meeting approved a suggestion that in future the names of all paid up members including Lady and junior members should be printed in the membership card.
1971 At a meeting on March 29th, it was reported that a new score box had been completed. Some problems had been met in operating the number rollers.
June 22nd. It was confirmed that the County Council maintained the rugby pitch. No increase was proposed on the current rent.
September 7th. A “break in was reported on about 21st - 22nd August. The intruders had been disturbed by the Police.”
At the AGM on October 27th the formation of a 200 club was approved as an aid to improving club funds.
It was decided to contact local Headmasters to see if young players could be interested in cricket with the club.
1972 At a Committee meeting, the possibility of the sale of the rugby pitch was raised. It was considered but decided against such action.
1973 At the half year GM, Col. Walker offered to pay for paint to decorate the outside of the pavilion. The offer was accepted.
Advertisements had been placed for a professional but the salaries requested were beyond the means of the club.
At the AGM on October 31st an improvement in financial returns over those in 1972 was reported, not least by the net profit of the bar being about £700.
The question of the viability of the "fruit machine" was raised and the possibility of purchasing or leasing a new machine was to be investigated.
The possibility of the sale of a plot of land to the YMCA was left to be considered by the Management Committee.
1974 At the half yearly GM on March 6th it was suggested that a Two Day match with St Modans should be considered as a way of celebrating their 25th anniversary. It was arranged for a game to be played on Sunday 14th July.
May 29th. A report was submitted by a sub committee on the possible development of the ground for recreational facilities, again including the possible sale of the ground and a move elsewhere. The proposition was considered because of 1) increasing vandalism, 2) interest of various parties in the purchase of part of the ground for housing and leisure facilities and 3) the need to make better use of the ground to warn off possible compulsory purchase. The Sports Council were approached for advice on possible developments.
1975 The Stirling Observer presented the club with a trophy to be called the Willie Little Trophy in the memory of its late editor and one time captain of Stirling CCC. It was decided that it would be awarded annually to the player or member who had achieved most for the club in the year.
At the AGM. on October 29th, the players subscription was raised to £10 and match fees were dropped.
1976 At the half yearly GM. on March 3rd. plans for a possible new pavilion were produced by the son of a member (Mr Francis), including an artist’s impression.
The club agreed to organise a a game in the week 16-21 August between the SCCC and the Ancient Guildry of Stirling, an event to form part of the festivities to celebrate the 700th anniversary of the granting of Stirling's Royal Charter. Wednesday the 18th August was the day favoured.
Thinking ahead, there was considered the possibility of a match between Scotland and Australia at Williamfield as part of the celebrations of occupancy of Williamfield for 100 years.
June. A tour in the area of Selby in Yorkshire was proposed.
AGM. October 27th. Development plans were well advanced at an estimated cost of between £40,000 and £50,000. It was reported that the Williamfield XI, under the captaincy of R.Bond had won the Forth Union Championship. In the Counties Championship, Irwin Iffla came second in the bowling averages.
Mrs Gemmell, sister of the late Willie Little, presented the club with £50 in the memory of her brother. After considering a variety of possible uses for the present it was finally agreed to produce a board detailing all the Captains of the club since its formation. (A Captains Board).
1977 Half Year G.M. March 2nd. Arrangements for the Centenary celebrations were considered. It was hoped to obtain some sponsorship locally, some being already promised. It was also agreed to arrange a number of matches against sides including the SCU Presidents Xl, the Scottish 40 club, a Forth Union Select, Central Scotland Cricket Association and hopefully an Australian Colts XI.
A Centenary Brochure was being produced and was at proof stage, organised by Jim Crumley. Producing 100 at 50p each it was hoped would make a profit of up to £500.
Centenary Celebration matches were played in July v Aberdeenshire (16th), Former Players (17th), Cape Insulation (18th), Scottish 40 Club (19th), Scottish Presidents XI (20th), Dumbartonshire (23rd), Williamfield v Forth Union (21st), Torbrex v CSC Select (22 nd) with the Palmer 7s final on the (24th).
April 7th. A special meeting was called to approve a complete revision of the club's Constitution. It was approved unanimously.
September 27th. A special meeting was called to consider proposals to go ahead with the new pavilion development. The meeting agreed for the Management Committee to approach the Brewers for a loan and to act on behalf of the club to proceed with the development, to refer back to a General Meeting if necessary.
AGM. October 27th. The meeting recorded its sorrow on reporting the death of Col. Forbes, the Club Patron and of Bob Oliver who had been club scorer for many years.
Innovations in the season had been the organisation of a Centurian Club, the provision of a new Club Flag and the installation of the Captains Board which was unveiled by Mrs Gemmell on July 17th.
Early in the season there was some discussion on the proposal to form a National Cricket League. No decision was reached.
1978 Half Year GM. While no final decision had been taken in respect of the possible new Pavilion, the situation was altered by the possibility of space being found within Williamfield for the construction of an Ice Hall by Central Region curlers. There followed regular meetings between a small group from the Cricket Club and representatives of the Curlers. For legal reasons associated with the Ice Rink Company it was necessary to form the Williamfield Club and this required the Cricket Club to appoint two members.
At the AGM on October 25th it was noted that E.Pollock, B.Russeli and Willie Morton had been selected to play in representative matches.
The Constitution was amended to ensure that playing members would retain control of the current and future use of the ground.
1979 Work on construction of the Ice Hall made some reorganisation of arrangements necessary during the cricket season partly because the Tea Pavilion had been demolished and because protective fencing round the development encroached on the boundary at one point.
At the AGM on October 31st it was reported that D.Macgowan had scored over 1000 runs in the season. A Club Tour was arranged at short notice based near Scarborough between 2nd and 3rd July.
The original entrance to the ground from Weavers Row was closed and the internal road returned to playing surface, the new entrance to the ground being from Torbrex Farm Road.
New metal Sight Screens were ordered for delivery in 1980.
1980 A special GM. was called for April 10th since the half year GM. was not quorate. The reason for the meeting was to consider several amendments to the Constitution affecting the objects of the Club, the details of members eligible to vote and the revised construction of the Management Committee. The new form required each member to have a specific responsibility in the running of the club including Secretary, Treasurer, Membership Secretary, Centurian Club, Buildings, Ground, Palmer's 7s, Teas, Captain of the First XI, Club President and Entertainment and Fund Raising.
Arrangements were made for an under 16 international to be played at Williamfield on 24/25 July. The under 13 XI reached the final of the Scottish Section of the National Cricket Competition.
The Williamfield XI won the Forth Union Championship for the second time.
At the AGM on October 29th it was reported that the Ice Hall had been completed and was now in use for curling and skating. Landscaping and car park layout had still to comply with the planning conditions.
December 9th. At a special meeting, the details of the lease agreement between the Ice Rink Company and the Cricket Club were explained.
1981 Parallel with the construction of the Ice Hall and the closing of the original entrance and the old road being excavated and replaced with soil, work was carried out to form a second cricket square where originally had been the rugby pitch. The new square was not yet playable.
Half Year GM. March 19th. The engagement of a professional was announced, the first for several years. His name was Ross Chapman.
The 7 a side competition was to be run on a league basis to be played between May 11th and June 5th.
It was planned to construct an all weather practice net on a concrete base.
At the end of April a working party was organised with tasks including the collection of stones (granite chips) from off the ground, local vandals being responsible for throwing them onto the ground.
July 7th. Two framed reproductions of a report of the game in 1864 between Stirling County CC and Ayr County CC. were purchased , one being presented to the Ayr club. This game was reported to be the first game between two counties in Scotland.
September 1st. At a special meeting it was agreed that Stirling County CC would support the formation of a National Cricket League, but only if a majority of the counties were in favour.
In recognition of 25 years service to the club in a variety of ways, it was proposed to finance a memento to be presented to R.Bond.
Honorary life membership was approved to be conferred on R.Bond and I.F.Maclver for special services rendered to the club.
1982 February 9th. Under the agreement with the Ice Hall Company, a joint club, the Williamfield Sports Club ran the bar and restaurant and from the profits of this club Stirling County C. C. were to receive a percentage. The grant of funds had been approved without full knowledge of the financial position. The profits were not as good as originally estimated and as a result the cricket club had received a greater share than was the proper entitlement.
May 7th. The posts and netting had been erected round the all weather practice net and the second cricket square had been relevelled. The 6 a side and 7 a side competitions were organised.
July 6th. W.Morton was selected to play for Scotland.
September 28th. R.Loudon was presented with a mounted cricket ball in recognition of a bowling "hat trick".
The Williamfield XI again won the Forth Union Championship.
1983 March 17th. A Stirling Sports Injury Clinic had been formed but it was decided that the club was not financially able to afford a club membership. However if sufficient individual members were interested it could be possible to amalgamate their fees to produce a club membership.
Fund raising was a constant problem and in addition to the 6 and 7 a side competitions a "marathon" was organised, consisting of 90 minutes running round a circular track marked on Williamfield, sponsorship being on the number of circuits completed in the 90 minutes. This took place on June 10th, starting at 7.00 pm on August 18th.
At a General Meeting the club decided to vote for the inclusion of both Strathmore and Prestwick into the Counties Championship.
AGM October 26th. Willie Morton was congratulated on joining Warwickshire Cricket Club in 1984.
1984 Half Year GM, March 15th. The financial situation had deteriorated as the income from the bar and restaurant had been overestimated and new arrangements were proposed which involved terminating the original agreement and would free the cricket club from debt.
The suggested arrangements included:-
a) the cricket club would pay a rent for use of the changing rooms on a 95 year lease.
b) the cricket club would be indemnified against possible repayment of the Scottish Sports Council Grant..
c) The Ice Rink Company would still pay a rent for the site of the hall, to be reviewed every five years.
It was also presumed that the cricket club could return to use of the old pavilion.
It was agreed to permit Gargunnock C.C. to use the second square for four games in the Alliance League.
September 25th. To eliminate possible damage to grass cutting equipment, the Ice Rink Company agreed to replace the granite chips round trees on the car park, using asphalt.
It was suggested that decorating the interior of the old pavilion should be postponed until roof leaks had been dealt with..
1985 February 4th. There had been a break in into the old pavi!ion, which again gave the club reason to consider what was the most suitable course of action to take in the future.
A tour of Holland was arranged to take place from 1st to 4th July.
The score box had been vandalised during the winter and the decision was taken to install a "vandalproof" metal door, but subsequently in May, further vandalism destroyed the score box, vandals gaining entry through the windows and it was gutted by fire. The scorched remains were later demolished.
This year the first XI won the Beneagles County Championship, the first time since 1952, and the second time in the club's history. Strangely enough, both championships were won in the last match, without a ball being bowled , against Forfarshire.
1986 A temporary score system was installed in the old pavilion.
Approval was given for two representative matches to be played at Williamfield namely Scottish under 23's v Ireland under 23's and Scotland under 15's v Somerset under 15's. on, respectively 13/14th August and 5th August.
AGM. October 28th. The First XI won the Famous Grouse Team of the month for April and then the Beneagles Quaich but finished 5th in the County Championship.
The Torbrex XI gained promotion to the C division of the East League Reserve Championship.
The under 18 XI won the East of Scotland Cup and were runners up in the Scottish under 18 Cup.
1987 The leaking roof of the old pavilion continued to defy repair.
Modification to the Ice Rink balcony balustrade was agreed, the upper wooden boards to be replaced by a clear polycarbonate board.
The granite chippings at the bases of trees which vandals had used to throw onto the outfield were at last sealed under asphalt.
A chipboard floor was laid over the existing floor boards of the pavilion main area and a start was made on painting the interior wooden walls.
A 5 x gang mower was acquired to speed up outfield grass cutting and new nets were installed.
Williamfield hosted the North District under 15's game against the Northamptonshire under 15's team on August 11th.
N.L.Tranter was elected President of the Scottish Counties Cricket Board.
1988 The professional (Mcwhinney) was given permission to tour with Clackmannanshire in Northumberland.
The club agreed to host two matches, the North District under 15's v Northamptonshire under 15's on August 9th and the Bank of Scotland semi-finals on August 14th. Earlier they had hosted the Scottish Districts Championship game between the Central and South teams, on June 19th.
The Williamfield XI again won the Forth Union Championship
The under 15's team won the National Competition and the under 16's team won the Scottish Cup.
1989 An unofficial access to the ground from St Ninians School corner of the ground was closed by the construction of a 6 ft. high brick wall, completed by the beginning of May.
Fund raising events included games against local teams The Greyhounds and Stirling Rugby Club.
Lack of players caused the club to concede the first three games in the Forth Union Championship.
The possibility of further renovations to the old pavilion was the subject of repeated discussion.
Once again there was much discussion in respect of the proposed National Cricket League, no firm decision being reached.
A team took part in an International Cricket Tournament in Rome in September. The team was congratulated on winning.
1990 Use of the old pavilion and a planned bar facility in the pavilion made it necessary to add specific rules to meet the requirements of the Licensing Authority. There was local opposition to the granting of a licence, mainly from the Stirling Ice Rink Company. Work on renovating the pavilion was rapidly organised and the Bar was operating by the end of June.
An under 15 match between Scotland and Northamptonshire was staged at Williamfield on 16th August.
Williamfield XI achieved promotion from grade C in the East League.
D.Anderson was awarded the Forth Union batting prize for 1990.
1991 The refurbishment of the pavilion changing rooms was discussed and action was taken to provide floor covering, curtains for the windows and lights in the toilets.
The club informed the Scottish Cricket Union of its support for the formation of a National Cricket League.
The provision of a new store for ground equipment was considered as it was felt that the present store under the pavilion was causing problems.
1992 The possibility of the sale of the ground, which would allow the club to move to an area less liable to vandalism, was regularly discussed. Possible new sites were subject of enquiries.
A new store for ground equipment was constructed but it was soon the target for vandalism
At a meeting in July of the Scottish Counties Cricket Board, the Counties unanimously agreed to pull out of the proposed National Cricket League.
At the AGM. on October 29th the President reported that the National Cricket League project had been abandoned.
The Williamfield XI gained promotion to the Grade A in the East League.
1993 Half Year GM. on March 24th. At this stage there did not appear to be any problem affecting the sale of the ground and a move to a new location. An Option Agreement was signed with Beazer Homes for Williamfield. Negotiations with the Cowane Trust for a new ground were reported to be very slow.
The original plan for the development of Williamfield was rejected by the Planning Authority.
At the AGM. on October 27th it was reported that a scheme had been finalised with the Planning Authority for Williamfield which envisaged some reduction in the developable area. This revised planning application was to be considered on November 11th.
1994 The meeting was informed that Beazer had withdrawn the current planning application after being warned that rejection was likely. It was agreed to wait for the publication of the Local Area Plan expected in early 1994. The club was to liaise with Beazer to decide as to when to submit a revised planning application.
AGM. October 31st. A planning application by Beazer had been referred to the Secretary of State for a decision. The club had submitted an application for Optional Planning Permission in respect of the Borrowmeadow site. Stirling District Council had requested a time extension in order to consider it.
This season the First XI won the Counties Cup.
1995 February 20th. The possibility of affiliating with Gargunnock Village Cricket Club was considered, to be presented at the AGM.
St Ninians Community Council had canvassed the area for support for its opposition to possible Williamfield development. A public Enquiry in respect of the Williamfield development plan was fixed for October 26th 1995. The club was still considering possible alternative sites at Borrowmeadow, Cambuskenneth and Bridge of Allan (Westerlea).
A tour of Ireland was fixed for the week commencing June 19th.
August 7th. Only after a long discussion it was agreed to support the Scottish County Cricket Board/East Scotland Cricket Association proposal for a Scottish Cricket League subject to some representations in respect of movement between Division One and Division Two.
November 26th. The Management Committee was authorised to explore with Beazer an alternative development plan which might be approved by the Planning Authority.
1996 February 12th. Development project. Beazer were preparing an alternative plan.
The club's planning application in respect of Westerlea was expected to be considered in March but it was withdrawn by agreement with Beazer.
The club submitted a letter detailing objections to the proposals to be included in the Area Local Plan.
July 16th. A Perth Australian School team played at Williamfield.
Edited by Robin Lang - March 2003