by example RISHTON CC have a wonderful leader in Peter Sleep, he leads by example.

The scene was set for a wonderful afternoon of cricket against visitors Nelson, with Sleep directing and plotting the downfall of the visitors, who were two wickets down when the heavens opened with torrential rain and the ground became a miniature lake.

The end of cricket for the day? Not so, said Peter Sleep. He rallied his men and, armed with self-propelled roller sledges, they attacked the water, pushing the contents over the boundary line, and into the gutters.

Peter took a turn with the blanket roller, emptying the contents in the gutter, then went back again for another refill.

His enthusiasm inspired all. The mechanical forks came into action, supported by hand tools, blankets, sawdust, etc.

After two hours of manual and mechanical labour, the field returned to its normal green.

But the damage was beyond repair -- the umpires decided to abandon play for the day.

We, the paying customers, enjoyed approximately one and a half hours of cricket. We also appreciated the efforts of volunteers who answered the call.

This village community is well served by dedicated people and with Peter Sleep as a leader, they will succeed.

Even the tea lady searched the outbuilding notifying the volunteers refreshments were available.

Well done, all concerned.

KEN ATKINSON, Selous Road, Blackburn.