Northallerton Town cricket club have re-engaged professional Jonathan Barnes for the coming season for the ninth year in succession.

Secretary David Wake, confirming this at the club's recent annual general meeting, said that the club had yet again been indebted to Barnes' performances in 2002.

He took 75 wickets and scored 878 runs to finish third and fourth respectively in the North Yorkshire and South Durham League's premiership averages.

However, despite good wins over leading sides, the team had lacked consistency and finished in mid-table.

In contrast, Northallerton's second team, led by Stuart Watson, were runners-up in division two and won the Buchanan cup. Chris Wayman also took the division two bowling award.

The club's third team disappointed in division four, finishing 12th despite outstanding bowling from vice-captain Mike Bickerton.

Returning to the Northallerton and District Evening League in 2002, the club's mid-week team, led by Kevin Clarkson, were runners-up, with Ian Place topping the league batting averages.

The club's own cup competition - the Granindon cup - organised by Jim Wilson and Ian Morton, was won by Sessay.

Looking to the future, Northallerton Town CC juniors had an outstanding season, claiming third place in the Wath Junior League and a shock win in the league cup final over a strong Bedale side.

A new trophy for the most improved junior player of the year was donated and presented by Derek Beckwith to young wicketkeeper Simon Pinkney.

Alan Bradley announced his retirement after 25 years as junior coach and was warmly applauded for his work. He hands over to Chris and Doug Mulholland.

Other player awards presented by club president Hugh Wrigley: Ian Gill (first XI); Chris Wayman (second XI); Mike Bickerton (third XI). He also awarded his annual president's voucher to Doug Mulholland "for his wholehearted displays".

Captains for the 2003 season: Ian Gill/vice-captain Doug Mulholland (first XI); Stuart Watson/Chris Wayman (second XI); Eddie Edwards/Mike Bickerton (third XI); David Wake (Evening League).

Off the field, Northallerton bounced back from a rare deficit in 2001 to post a surplus of just over £2,000. However, treasurer Keith Place warned that the club faced a difficult year, with expected rises in insurance and especially the loss of its main sponsor for the past eight years, Walter Thompson.

Mr Place paid tribute to their past support, stressing the importance of sponsorship to the club's finances. It was working hard to find new backing and he urged members to help the campaign.

Club officers for 2003: chairman, Geoff Elstob; secretary, David Wake; treasurer, Keith Place; assistant treasurer, Tony Severs; cricket secretary, Ian Morton