MARSDEN BS Lancashire League runners-up East Lancs landed a cash windfall through the turnstiles last summer.

The East Lancs club, who finished a point behind champions Rishton, saw gates double at Alexandra Meadows in comparison to 1995.

"We had our third most successful return of gate receipts in the history of the cricket club," confirmed East Lancs chairman Larry Pearson. "The gates were double in comparison to 1995 and that reflected the success we had on the field.

"We challenged Rishton all the way and if it wasn't for Allan Donald then we would have probably won the league. We are very optimistic about the future at East Lancs."

Last night's cricket meeting at Alexandra Meadows confirmed a number of re-appointments. Eric Greenwood (secretary), Wilf Sager (treasurer) and Larry Pearson as chairman.

East Lancs have already secured the services of South African Billy Stelling as professional for 1997 and skipper Mark Lomas added: "We've made good progress on the field and next season our aim is to challenge hard for the title again."

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