AS the cricket season got off to a sunny and successful start for Prestwich, there was a thrilling finish reported 25 years ago -- with an unlikely hero.

Wicketkeeper Bill Taylor had given his usual accomplished performance behind the stumps, taking a fine catch and conceding no byes, in their game against Denton West.

But, as the Guide reported: "What surprised the most enthusiastic Prestwich supporter was that Taylor won the match, at the death, with his batting".

A score of 32 was needed off just four overs.

The report went on: "Taylor employed his own shot, the off-glance, to good effect and hooked a six off Ainsworth, who had bowled well earlier, and nudged a couple of fours with his pads, third man and fine leg being vacant.

"Ken Morgan swung a four to square leg and victory, which had seemed impossible, was now likely. It arrived in the last over, via Taylor's pads".