EARLY finishers Prescot Cables did not have any silverware to display for their 113th season efforts yet there was plenty to celebrate at last Friday's presentation of domestic awards, writes Bert Taylor.

The club's continued existence in troublesome times presented ample evidence of commitment at management and playing levels, and three main officials underlined appreciation of everyone who had worked hard to get the cub back on its feet.

I always think to name names on such an occasion is invidious as running a football club is a natural team effort at both management and players' staff levels.

And one must never overlook the important backing of other helpers and supporters.

However ,one could applaud vice-chairman Doug Lace for making special mention of chairman Ted Mercer who was unable to attend the Liverpool city centre function due to business calls.

Since his 1994 arrival benefactor Ted has turned Cables' fortunes around despite the loss of the Hope Street ground when the club was heavily in debt.

Now, thanks to better management and successful fund-raising the future is looking much brighter.

A thing which impressed me was the pleasurable atmosphere with team manager Arthur McCumiskey and his assistant Derek Hughes at the helm.

Both had plenty to say about a commitment which, hopefully, will see the club back in style when proposed plans for a new stadium in Prescot come to fruition.

On the playing side, next season cannot come too soon for young players who are bound to improve with experience.

McCumiskey said: "For two years we have never had a 'home' game but the team has been tremendous and I thank everyone who has put a shirt on for Prescot Cables, I must also pay tribute to the people who have pulled us through a traumatic time, especially Ted Mercer who has kept us going through his financial support."

McCumiskey paid a special tribute to 43-year-old Tommy Barry who will probably hang up his boots after a praiseworthy service to the game on Merseyside. His clubs included Bootle, Kirkby Town and New Brighton before joining Cables after the appointment of McCumiskey two years ago.

The presentations were made by donor Mr Bernard Raynor of Inscript Engravers, Liverpool.

The management choice for the player of the year award was goal ace Peter Cumiskey who had scored 20 goals when his season was cut short through a cartilage operation.

The runner-up was experienced defender Joe Doyle.

The supporters' choice for recognition was centre-back Simon Hughes who did a double by also becoming the first holder of the Brian Lowton trophy, a lifelong supporter and worker, who died recently.

Last week's lottery winning numbers were 2,5,10,12,15,16. There were no claims. A draw for £850 takes place on Sunday next at 9.30pm in the Deans House Hotel.

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