IT WAS sad to read of the disbandment of the Burnley and District Cricket League, established over 100 years ago.

As a former player and umpire in the league, it makes me wonder where the passion and desire for the game has gone in the amateur ranks.

Could it be the cost of running a team, with ever-increasing ground fees, umpires, transport and maintaining equipment, or is it that the youngsters of today love the easier, more leisurely pastimes of computer games, television and the like?

Maybe they lack the over-the-top attitude we had in the past -- of playing in the evening until the ball was barely visible and meals were left on the table while mothers tore out their hair wondering where their offspring were.

Maybe the loss of this league is small fry in the playing stakes, but it could have a knock-on effect in the development of future players who could have aspired to higher levels.

MR K SOWERBUTTS, Southwood Drive, Baxenden.