Swainby chalked up an unenviable record at the weekend when they were all out for just four runs in the Langbaurgh League game against East Harlsey!

"Unfortunately, it is the lowest score ever recorded," confirmed League secretary Bernard Newman.

"It looks as if it was a freak result since there was nothing wrong with the wicket. After all, East Harlsey batted first and made a very respectable 181 for the loss of seven wickets."

Captain John Coatsworth is confident it was a one off performance. "Strangely enough, we were very pleased with our performance at the halfway stage. We thought we had bowled and fielded well and never believed for one moment that we would struggle at the wicket as we did."

Swainby had only nine men but eventually an onlooker took part. "Like most village clubs we are struggling for players and I would appeal to anyone looking for a game on a Saturday afternoon to get in touch.

"Already one prospective player has been in touch and I am hoping more will show an interest. It is essential that we keep village cricket alive but obviously we need more players and must improve on last Saturday's performance.

"The team is keen and we will be putting in some batting practice and hopefully our efforts will eventually prove worthwhile," added Coatsworth.

Swainby have played on the same ground since 1909 and although there is some concern for the future, they are determined to celebrate their centenary.

For the record, four players scored one run apiece against East Harlsey. The 'successful' batsmen were George Clemmit, Les Clemmit, Ron Atkinson and skipper Coatsworth.

John Grainge claimed five of the wickets for just one run while Dave Willey took the other four at a cost of three runs.

The scorecard read: Swainby: G Clemmit b Willey 1, J Coatsworth b Grainge 1, L Clemmit b Willey 1, I Hardacre c Broadley b Willey 0, C Beadle b Willey 0, R Atkinson b Grainge 1, S Tate b Grainge 0, P Shaw b Grainge 0, A Berry b Grainge 0, R Livingstone not out 0. Extras 0. Total (all out) 4. Bowling: Grainge 5-1, Willey 4-3.

* If you would like to contact John Coatsworth about playing for Swainby ring him on (01642) 725219.