CRICKET: Winnington Park have been granted ClubMark accreditation by the ECB and Sport England in recognition of the club’s off-the-field efforts, policies and working practice.

A club spokesman said: “With it comes a range of benefits, not least sending positive messages to the community, schools, community groups, local authorities and other funding agencies about the quality and safety of the club’s junior section.”

Park start their indoor nets sessions next month as they begin their preparations for an assault on Meller Braggins Division One.

Nets commence on Sunday, February 1 and will run for 10 weeks at St Nicholas High School, Hartford. Under 9-11 sessions run from 5-6pm followed by U18 and seniors from 6-8pm.

Matches frozen off

ANGLING: The recent spell of cold weather took its toll on Barnton & Frodsham AC’s matches last week as both Wednesday’s and Saturday’s contests were called off as Heesom’s Pool was covered by an inch of ice.

Sunday’s fifth-round match of the Scott’s Shield series on the River Weaver’s dredger length did go ahead but the fishing was atrocious. Although the air temperature was much higher than of late, the water was very cold and none of the competitors managed to record a bite.

Leading the way in the series is Mark Emmison with 79 points, closely followed by Arthur Kenney, Chris Parry and Steve Walker who have 73 points each.

Kick out your boots

FOOTBALL: Witton Albion are asking for unwanted pairs of football boots.

In support of the UniBond League’s commitment to the Boots for Africa project, initiated by Sheffield FC, Witton hope that people will drop off boots they no longer need at Wincham Park.

The stadium office will be open on Thursday evenings and at any home fixture.

Forced off their oche

DARTS: Two teams in the Northwich and District League have been forced to find alternative venues after their home ‘grounds’ became unavailable.

Weaverham Cricket Club’s teams have been locked out of their Wallerscote Road base and Lion and Railway are playing elsewhere as the pub is in the process of being sold.

League secretary Brian Moore said: “The teams are finding other venues to play at, but it’s causing an awful lot of extra paperwork.”

National challenge

SWIMMING: Sir John Deane’s College’s swimming team have earned national pride after gaining a place in the National College Championships.

A-level students George White, Ashley Walton, Jack Steele and Alex Hay will now compete at the event being held in Gloucester on Saturday, February 7.

Lesley McLaughlin, manager of Sir John Deane’s College Leisure Centre, said: “Congratulations and good luck to the team.”