PRIMROSE Hill aim to win every game they play – but the fun element is still the over-riding principle, says chairman Mike Houghton.
A few years ago the club was on the verge of folding.
"The pressure was on to play league cricket on Saturdays and friendlies on Sundays and things did not look good. But we decided to go for friendlies and since then we have not looked back," said Mike.
Formed in the 1920s, Primrose Hill have long since quit playing on Farmer Liddington's field above the town - it's now a housing estate – and for many years they have played on a wicket at Lydney's Bathurst Park.
These days they have a full Sunday fixture list and play around six Saturday games, mostly against touring sides.
"Don't get us wrong. We are very keen to win every game we play but it is not the end of the world if we don't. A lot of our cricketers play league on a Saturday and then turn out for us on a Sunday and that's the way we like it," said Mike.
His great concern is that younger players are not joining.
"I understand and appreciate they like league cricket but club games offer just as competitive an edge. We would welcome some youngsters to join us," said Mike.
Saturday's game against the touring Sussex team Twynam and Wynam was keenly contested, Primrose Hill winning by just one run.
After a poor start the Primrose Hill innings was built round a great batting display by Dave Coldrick. He scored 76 and was well supported by Adam Wilkins who hit 26. Primrose Hill were eventually all out for 175.
In reply the visitors fell behind the required run rate. There was some lusty hitting towards the close but after 40 overs they ended on 174 for eight.
Primrose Hill's chief wicket-takers were Gary Brice who took two for 22 off eight overs and Stuart Couchman who took two for 30, also off eight overs.
Mike said the players appreciated the effort put in by Park staff to provide a good wicket.
"They do an excellent job," he said.
•Anyone who would like a game can contact Mike on Dean 841280.