HARD work thousands of volunteers put into recreational cricket has been recognised at an OSCAs ceremony.

Durham Cricket Board’s Outstanding Services to Cricket Awards were presented to 11 of the most outstanding volunteers by chief executive Tim Bostock at Durham’s Vitality Blast opener against Northants Steelbacks.

Willington Cricket Club grabbed a new award for the most inspiring and diverse cricket offer for its tireless efforts to make the sport accessible to everybody in their community. The club, which has a fully developed women’s and girls’ pathway, has this season developed the first club-based table cricket provision in the county, attracting 12 players with physical and learning disabilities.

The All Stars Cricket centre of the year title went to Shotley Bridge Cricket Club for the promotion and exceptional delivery of the eight-week programme in the club.

Anthony Pattison, from Beamish and East Stanley Cricket Club, won the heartbeat of the club award in recognition of 15 years as the driving force behind its development.

Anita Smith, of Norton Cricket Club, was awarded for her commitment to create a women’s squad in the women’s and girls’ cricket development category, while Andrea Bowman won contribution to youth participation for rejuvenating Sunderland Cricket Club’s junior section and developing a thriving pathway for youngsters.

Katie Jones, from Lintz Cricket Club, won the young volunteer award in the 19 to 25 age category for her crucial role in driving and supporting junior participation programmes in her club, as Alex Paterson won the award in the 14 to 18 age group for her confident support of All Stars Cricket and under nines competitions at Newton Aycliffe Cricket Club.

Durham Cricket’s 2019 Lifetime Achiever is Adrian Wood, who has numerous roles at Washington Cricket Club which he has been involved in for 40 years.

Rene Grosvenor picked up an officiating award for her contribution to Shotley Bridge Cricket Club as a scorer and scoring tutor, while John Bell was recognised for services to groundsmanship for his dedication and skill at Lanchester Cricket Club.

Peter Ruddick was presented the proactive leadership in cricket award for his energy and insight in developing Whickham Cricket Club’s social media.