They came from near and far for the 2025 finale.

Twenty-five people enjoyed the friendly and social get together before hanging up their bats.

Starting off the night Carlton Blues’ Gary Coad and Hawks’ Cheryl Coad took on Pete Spring and Martin Butcher, with no love lost by either team Cheryl and Gary showed that they were in for the win.

Some shots weren’t even in the book but Pete and Martin proved too strong winning 21 to 19 in a nail-biter.

When ‘pretty in pink’ Neil Spurgeon and Debbie Brunken faced off with ‘dressed to the nines’ Alison Stephens and ‘very formal’ Graham Stephens, everyone knew that there was a different meaning to “friendly”.

With precise accuracy and judgement Alison and Graham proved far too good.

Firm handshakes and smiles all round told the story of a great game.

When powerhouse Martin Butcher and ‘reindeer’ Richard Morgan took on Adam Bosley and cricketer Hugh Spring (Hugh has been selected to play for North East U16’s cricket team), last weeks rivalry continued on.

Hugh and Adam were looking good for the win but in an unexpected comeback, Martin and Richard proved that it ain’t over till the final point.

In the round robin of the night Kate Cole, Clive Brooker, Adam Bosley and tied up Jason Mullins all played to win.

Throughout all three games there was no give or take, but with firm handshakes and grins all round everyone was a winner.

With the Oxley Bush Market on shortly, Tutu’s Lacey Solimo and Hugh Spring set up to ‘Stall Lilo’ Pete Spring and ‘Tweety Bird’ Caleb Gillies in their attempt to win the prize. Lacey and Hugh not being shy of wonderful surprises played the game to perfection and so took home the cakes.

There were no signs of “quiet please” when the ladies Lucy Uebergang and Janet Heath took on Alison Stephens and Debbie Brunken.

With laughter all round and some “where did that shot come from” an enjoyable game was had by all, scores not recorded.

William Bonwick and Jason Mullins with plenty of energy left played against David Harris and Adrian Brunken.

After what seemed like an eternity David and Adrian snuck home just.

In the left-handed battle June Uebergang and Neil Spurgeon played Richard Morgan and Martin Butcher, some interesting shots took place with June and Neil out on top 21 to 15.

With the supper table full of magnificent delights, it ensured everyone had something to enjoy in between games.

Looking forward to next year’s season with plenty of stories to tell.

Probable starting date is early April.

Details will be communicated early in the New Year.

Thanks to everyone for a great year.

All the best to everyone always.