Bridging the gap

JOE SMITH-BUTLER WITH CEC WRIGHT

THE old and the new went head to head when Bamford Fieldhouse and Uppermill met at second-team level.

And it led to Bamford’s Andy Smith-Butler wondering what the biggest age gap is between the oldest and youngest players on the pitch in a Saddleworth League match.

Andy’s 12-year-old son Joe was up against Uppermill’s evergreen Cec Wright, still plying his trade at the age of 75.

Young Joe normally plays for Bamford’s under-13s and under-15s and is in the league under-13s side.

He took his first hat-trick a few weeks ago, against Saddleworth, and at the weekend broke Uppermill’s opening stand with a sharp caught and bowled chance.

Dad Andy was also in action - for the first time since snapping a cruciate knee ligament in last season’s Tanner Cup final against Heyside - and he took six wickets.

It was the first time Andy and Joe had appeared in the same team - just as Andy and his father had done for Bamford 2nds nearly 30 years ago.

Said Andy: “It made it a special occasion for me - all the more so with Cec being there. He really is a most amazing man.

“Anyone who shares the field with him is truly honoured. His ability to still perform to a very high standard is special - the likes of which may not be seen again.”