Poor weather dominated much of the Cornwall Youth Cricket Festival, with two events, the Under 15s and Under 17s, having their finals days washed out for the first time in the tournament’s 26-year history. 

There was still some great encouragement for Cornish cricket, though, as the first girls’ tournament was staged on the Tuesday, with St Erme coming out as clear victors. 

Seven teams took part in this Under 13 six-a-side event, including St Austell, Falmouth, Grampound Road, St Just, Newquay and
visitors Walmley CC (Birmingham), who were defeated 165 to 117 in the final.

There was again some floodlit cricket, kindly sponsored by May-Gurney, Jewson Ltd and Ellis Electrical.  Though the Under 17 competition remained incomplete, two exciting evenings of play took place and there was an adult ‘friendly’, as hosts St Gluvias overcame their guests Walmley on Sunday night. 

Paul CC reached the Under 13 final, which was also abandoned, but were comfortably beaten by Walmley on overall run rate for the tournament.

The 31-team Under 11 event was largely played out, but rain again prevented a conclusion so, later in the week, various games were fitted in, resulting in the following: Paul A won the Silver Plate (runners-up were Grampound Road A), Walmley C beat newcomers Tregony for the Bronze Plate and St Gluvias conquered Ladock to take the Bowl.  Perranporth will meet Truro or Penzance when the main (Shield) final is eventually rearranged.

CYCF officials were obviously disappointed with the effect of the continuing dreadful summer of weather, but were heartened by the record-shattering 83 teams which entered and played. 

That’s an increase of 11 on last year’s previous high of 65, even without the new girls’ event.  The organisers thanked the many club officials and supporters who offered support in trying circumstances.  Next year the Festival will run from Sunday 11 to Friday, August 16.