Just a brief response to the editorial comments (at the foot of 02566) on the North West Colts Trophy which readmitted the Liverpool Competition in 2007 after the league had served a two year ban.

About 4/5 years ago it became increasingly difficult for the leagues in the east of the county to fulfil Colts fixtures in two competitions: The NW Colts Trophy and The Manchester Evening News Competition. Leagues such as the Northern League, Ribblesdale, Lancashire County, Bolton League etc had to make a choice. The junior MEN competition was 'tied' to the senior MEN competition and therefore they had no option but to move away from the NW Colts Trophy. This left us with eight viable leagues and yes – it may be partly correct to say about lack of interest and eligibility as far as the three that have withdrawn since.

I rather think the primary reason is the profusion of Sunday and Bank Holiday cricket involving the better clubs ie those that progress in cups etc which also tend to be those with the more able colts. Leagues therefore find it more difficult to field competitive colts teams.  

Regardless, the North West Colts Trophy will provide competitive cricket for up and coming youngsters as long as sufficient leagues want it.