A TEAM of accountants managed to beat a cricket club at their own game in a friendly match after first saving them from a huge VAT bill.

Castle Eden cricket club took on the team from Darlington-based Clive Owen & Co as a way of thanking the company for its help.

The accountants achieved a narrow victory in a match played in superb spirits.

The club feared it would have to shut down last summer when it was landed with a VAT bill for £43,000 following the completion of work on its pavilion.

Clive Owen & Co offered to help after one of its associates, Barry Braim, read about the club's plight in a newspaper.

After registering and agreeing a special method with HM Customs and Excise, the club received a £48,000 refund, £5,000 more than the sum they originally owed.

Castle Eden chairman Hughie Teasdale said: "When the VAT bill came through it was like my worst nightmare.

"Then Clive Owen & Co helped us out and we even ended up with a lump sum from the taxman. It was a huge relief for me, my wife and everyone at the club."

Mr Braim said: "When I read about the club's financial problems I realised we would be able to help.

"We were delighted with the result, and of course with our result in the cricket match as well, though I suspect the club side wasn't playing to its full potential.

"The evening was great fun and the club were terrific hosts."