The Lost Years: Hatfield Cricket Club - 1901-1945

48 On the same day that Hatfield’s 1st XI secured a win against Hill End, the ‘A’ team also emerged victorious in their game against Highfield Hall. Led by Bill Mitchell, who took 5 wickets, the visitors were dismissed for 53 runs. In response, the Hatfield XI put up a solid batting performance, scoring 105 runs to secure a comfortable win SATURDAY, 28 JUNE The Hatfield Park derby between the Estate side and the Town club ended in a draw, with the Estate team holding the upper hand throughout the game. After declaring at a strong position of 195 for 8, the Estate side put the pressure on their opponents. In response, the Town club s were only able to finish at a modest score of 79 for 8. SATURDAY, 05 JULY Hatfield’s ‘A’ team suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of North Mymms Village, losing by an innings and 25 runs. The visitors were completely outplayed in the match, as they struggled to cope with Mymms’ dominant display. In the first innings, the Hatfield team was bowled out for a paltry score of 29 runs, failing to make any real impact with the bat. Things didn't improve in the second innings either, as they were dismissed for just 43 runs. This was in response to Mymms’ total of 97 runs. HATFIELD HILL END ASYLUM R Ray c Hayward b Graham 35 F G Williams c Wood b Ashton 35 D Ellingham c Hall b Birch 24 H Bacon b Ashton 4 V Austin b Graham 11 J West b Ashton 4 E Elliott not out 49 W Birch b Ashton 0 P Ashton b Graham 6 H Fassnidge b Ashton 0 W Hart c and b West 0 C Searle c Ray b Ashton 2 W Watson c Williams b Fassnidge 1 Dr Graham b Ellingham 12 C P Caesar b Bacon 7 E J Haywod c Hammond b Ashton 1 Rev C T Wood run out 6 J Cunningham c Elliott b Ashton 6 A Hammond b West 0 A Welch not out 0 H West c West b Bacon 0 W Hall c Ellingham b Ashton 0 Extras 12 Extras 4 Total 151 Total 68 Hertford Mercury and Reformer - 28 June 1913

49 SATURDAY, 26 JULY St Alban’s Teachers visited Hatfield Hyde and taught the ‘A’ team a lesson. Walter Bracey put up a stellar performance with the ball, taking 6 wickets in St. Alban's Teachers’ innings, who managed to score a total of 114 runs. Despite Bracey's excellent display, the Hatfield ‘A’ team was unable to match their opponents' total and could only muster a score of 61 runs in reply. THURSDAY, 07 AUGUST Hatfield’s Thursday XI secured a comfortable 90-run victory against Winchmore Hill, with the help of some visiting nobility. The hosts put up a decent score of 156 runs, thanks to some impressive batting performances by Viscount Howick, who scored a half-century, and John Groom, who also chipped in with a solid 50 runs. In response, Winchmore Hill struggled to cope with the Hatfield bowling attack, and were bowled out for a mere 66 runs. Vincent Austin was the pick of the bowlers for Hatfield, taking 5 wickets and helping to secure a comfortable win for the hosts. Viscount Howick, who was related to the Cecils, was actually Charles Robert Grey, who later became the 5th Earl Grey. HATFIELD UNITED V. NORTH LONDON AMATEURS Played at Hatfield on Saturday and won by the home team by 42 runs:– HATFIELD UNITED NORTH LONDON AMATEURS D Ellingham c Drylands b H Watts 24 H Dunk c and b Elliott 7 A O Fuller b Dixon 34 C Dixon c and b Elliott 9 A Warner c Drylands b H Watts 0 H Watts b Elliott 15 G Ingham b Dixon 5 T Drylands b Ellingham 14 E Elliott b Dixon 8 R ?? b Elliott 0 V Austin b Dixon 25 C Taylor c and b Auston 6 C P Caesar lbw b Watts 12 W Watts not out 20 W Watson b W Watts 5 T Chanter c Caesar b Warner 5 C Benson c Cley b W Watts 5 J Cley b Austin 1 H West not out 7 J Warner b Warner 0 R Gadsden c Chanter b W Watts 1 C Panter b Austin 2 Extras 12 Extras 17 Total 138 Total 96 Hertford Mercury and Reformer - 19 July 1913

50 On the same day, the ‘A’ team lost narrowly “after a good game” by 52 runs to 60 at London Colney. Hatfield had reached 60 for 6 in their second innings when time was called. HATFIELD UNITED V. WELWYN Played at Hatfield on Saturday, when the home team won easily by 119 runs. Ashton had a good deal to do with Hatfield’s victory, taking five wickets for 30 runs and scoring 40 runs. Scores:– HATFIELD UNITED WELWYN D Ellingham b Penn 1 T Hassard b Ellingham 6 J Groom run out 7 G Ansell b Ashton 4 E Elliott c Hassard b Penn 11 C Duranty c Ashton b Ellingham 5 G Carpenter c Hayes b Duranty 27 C Penn b Ashton 5 A Warner b Penn 16 D Thomas c and b Elliott 23 P Ashton lbw b Penn 40 Rev P M Wathenb Ashton 0 V Austin not out 35 J Gilbert b Ashton 0 Rev. C T Wood b Penn 0 A Hayes b Ashton 0 C F Benson b Penn 13 S Cooper b Hammond 7 A Hammond c Thomas b Cooper 14 J Dodd b Elliott 1 T Hickson b Cooper 9 R Agar not out 2 Extras 3 Extras 4 Total 176 Total 57 Hertford Mercury and Reformer - 16 August 1913 FINCHLEY CHURCH END V. HATFIELD UNITED Played at Hatfield on Thursday, August 14, and won by the home team by 12 runs. Scores:– HATFIELD UNITED FINCHLEY Ireton Horsey b A Windett 25 S F Birkin c Newey b Groom 45 Rev C T Wood b Walby 1 D A Bishop b Austin 1 W Groom c Buntins b A Windett 75 A V Windett c and b Groom 22 V Austin b Birkin 11 G Roper c Bishop b Groom 27 C Benson c Birkin b A Windett 8 W Walby c Horsey b Wood 3 J Walby b Birkin 4 H Sexton st Bishop b Austin 28 J Bishop b Birkin 4 W H Sparrow run out 7 J Barber b Birkin 5 H Hawkins b Groom 1 J Lloyd b Birkin 0 H Buntins c Wood b Austin 1 Newey c Sexton b A Windett 0 H Windett not out 2 L Payne not out 0 C C Castle b Newey 0 Extras 23 Extras 7 Total 156 Total 144 Hertford Mercury and Reformer - 23 August 1913

51 The ‘A’ team, meanwhile, was defeated at Sandridge by 88 runs to 44. THURSDAY, 30 AUGUST The Thursday XI faced off against the hospital staff at Leavesden Asylum in a thrilling match, ultimately losing by just 4 runs in a high-scoring affair. Leavesden managed to score an impressive 191 runs, but Hatfield fought hard and finished with a respectable score of 187. HILL END ASYLUM V. HATFIELD UNITED Played on the Asylum ground on Saturday and won by Hatfield by 41 runs on the first innings. Scores:– HATFIELD UNITED HILL END ASYLUM Rev C T Wood c Hall b Bacon 37 F Williams lbw b Ellingham 7 D Ellingham b West 9 J Dollard b Hammond 1 E Elliott b West 23 W Birch b Hammond 0 V Austin c Bacon b West 1 H Bacon b Ellingham 7 J Groom b West 11 E J Haward c Groom b Ellingham 2 C F Benson b Bacon 0 Dr Graham c Groom b Hammond 15 A Hammond c Hall b Bacon 18 H Fassnidge b Hammond 7 J Smith b Bacon 0 J West c Elliott b Ellingham 8 H West b West 4 Cunningham not out 1 E Palmer b West 1 W Hall b Hammond 0 R Gadsden not out 1 A Welch b Hammond 0 Extras 7 Extras 23 Total 112 Total 71 Hertford Mercury and Reformer - 23 August 1913 HATFIELD UNITED V. POTTERS BAR This match was played at Hatfield on Thursday, September 11, and ended in a draw, the home side scoring 140 and Potters Bar 105 for 6 wickets. Scores:– HATFIELD UNITED POTTERS BAR G Carpenter b Crowsley 0 Loder run out 1 J Groom b Carr 5 Girling c I Horsey b Ellingham 21 C Horsey b Crowsley 10 B Tomlin b Ellingham 5 Ireton Horsey b Carr 16 Eldred b Newey 4 H Gregory b Crowsley 0 Roper lbw b Ellingham 4 H C Benson c and b Crowsley 29 Carr run out 43 M J Walby b Loder 41 T Crowsley not out 17 S C Hankin c Eldred b Carr 10 Theobald not out 0 C F Benson not out 2 Pinner D Ellingham c Eldred b Carr 8 Benham N Newey b Carr 0 Crowsley Extras 19 Extras 10 Total 140 Total for 6 wickets 105 Hertford Mercury and Reformer - 20 September 1913

52 A general meeting of the Hatfield United Cricket Club was held in the Public Hall on Thursday, December 18, when there were present: Messrs H West, in the chair, H Gregory, S C Hankin, R Halsey, D Ellingham, F Hickson, G Cooper, F G Pike, A Bracey, W C Newey, E Elliott, A O Fuller, T Westcott, J Groom, and the assistant hon. secretary W R Watson. Mr D Ellingham, vice-captain, read the report for the past season, which showed that 26 matches had been played, of which 15 had been won, 9 lost and 2 drawn. This, he considered, was a very good record and was no doubt due in great measure to the help received from the members of the late Brewery Club. The batting and bowling averages were as follows:– Batting: W Groom 71.8; E Elliott 25.64; M J Walby 17.87; P Ashton 17; H Gregory 15.78; J Groom 15.4; V Austin 15.3; H C Benson 13.14; A Warner 12.83; A O Fuller 12.75; Rev C T T Wood 10.88; D Ellingham 10.21; W C Newey 7.5; C P Caesar 7.36; Ireton Horsey 7.3; G Carpenter 7.29; C F Benson 6.5; A Hammond 5.3; S C Hankin 4.38; H West 2.6; A Palmer 0.87. Bowling: P Ashton 6.03 runs per wicket; A Hammond 6.3; Elliott 7.06; A Palmer 7.77; W Groom 7.82; W C Newey 9.14; D Ellingham 9.61; V Austin 10.06; A O Fuller 11.5; M J Walby 16.82; A Warner 16.87; Rev C T T Wood 18.37; H C Benson 43.33. Mr F Hickson, captain of the ‘A’ team, in his report stated that they had not experienced so successful a season as the first team but they had played some very good games and had had some enjoyable afternoons, and had had some very enjoyable afternoons, and he took that opportunity of thanking all the members who had supported him so heartily. W Hart was first in the batting averages with 18.4 runs, W Bracey second, 9.5 and V Scott third, 7.2. The bowling averages were as follows: A Bracey 5 runs per wicket; W Bracey 5.19; G Cooper 7; and C Austin 7. Mr W R Watson then presented an estimated balance-sheet for the past season. The chief items of expenditure were labour on park and ground £14 10s, umpires £6 15s, rail fares, etc £3 10s 9½d, tent £7, erection of tent and bowling sheets £3 4s; total £58 4s 7½d. The receipts, together with the balance of £8 4s 7d from the previous year amounted to £47 16s 4½d, leaving an estimated deficit of £10 8s 3d. There was an amount of £9 13s, members’ subscriptions owing and in all probability about half would be collected. Some discussion then took place with regard to wiping off the deficit, and eventually Mr S C Hankin proposed that the club endeavour to work off the deficit next year. This was seconded by Mr F Hickson and carried. Mr H Gregory proposed a vote of thanks to the secretaries, which was seconded by Mr Fuller. The chairman also moved a hearty vote of thanks to the committee of ladies who had worked so enthusiastically in the matter of providing teas at matches. Their services had been greatly appreciated, not only by members of their own club, but also by visiting teams, and their efforts had been the means of increasing the funds of the club by a sum of no less than £1 12s 3½d. Both votes were heartily seconded.

53 1914 SATURDAY, 16 MAY Despite the valiant efforts of Hatfield United's bowlers, the team suffered a heavy defeat. Top scorers C Austin (24), Alfred Fuller (20), Gerry Carpenter (15), Ron Halsey (13), and Ernest Elliott (10) contributed to Hatfield's total of 111 all out. However, Welwyn proved to be a formidable opponent, finishing the game with an impressive score of 211 for 7 by the end of play. THURSDAY, 21 MAY The Thursday XI experienced a crushing defeat when they were bowled out for a mere 25 runs at Leavesden Asylum. Despite the hospital side only managing to score 96 runs (thanks to the impressive performances of Ernest Household and Wilfred Newey, who each took 4 wickets), Hatfield's batting proved to be no match. The team managed to reach a total of 56 for the loss of 1 wicket by the close of play, but the damage had already been done. SATURDAY, 23 MAY Hatfield turned the tables on Linotype in a dominant performance, dismissing the opposing team for just 21 runs with the help of Ernest Elliott and Dan Ellingham, who shared the wickets. Despite rain leading to an abandonment of play, Hatfield had already secured a strong lead by reaching 52 for 0 wickets. Ernest Elliott was a standout performer, scoring an impressive 37 not out, while Dan Ellingham also contributed with 14 not out. THURSDAY, 28 MAY Hatfield's batsmen once again struggled in a disappointing performance, being dismissed for a mere 18 runs in response to Potters Bar's total of 50. Batting again, Hatfield finished the game with a score of 27 for 1 when play ended for the day. A vote of thanks to the chairman, proposed by Mr Fuller, concluded the business. Hertford Mercury & Reformer 18 December 1913

54 SATURDAY, 30 MAY The 1st XI traveled to Hertingforbury and emerged victorious in a thrilling match, winning by 6 runs. Hatfield scored a total of 104 runs (with standout performances from Peter Ashton, who scored 30, Arthur Warner with 28, and Ernest Elliott with 16). Hertingfordbury put up a good fight, but ultimately fell short with a total score of 98. Dan Ellingham for Hatfield, taking an impressive 5 wickets for just 11 runs. Elliott and Ashton also contributed with 2 wickets each, taking 2-16 and 2-17 respectively. MONDAY, 01 JUNE On Whit-Monday, Bowes Park visited Hatfield Park and emerged victorious in a one-sided match, winning by 79 runs. Bowes Park scored a total of 120 runs, with Eddie Hickson being the standout performer for the visiting side, taking 4 wickets for just 27 runs. Wilfred Newey and Dan Ellingham also made contributions, taking 3-22 and 2-40 respectively. In response, Hatfield struggled to get going and were only able to score 41 runs, with Gerry Carpenter being the highest scorer with just 11 runs. Hatfield's second innings was no better, finishing the day at 68-9, still well short of Bowes Park's total. THURSDAY, 04 JUNE The Thursday XI played an impressive match at Hatfield Park, cruising past Potters Bar's total score of 30 runs with only three wickets down. Dan Ellingham was the standout performer for Hatfield, taking an impressive 5 wickets for just 9 runs, while William Groom also made significant contributions with 4 wickets for 9 runs and Wilfred Newey took 1 wicket for 10 runs. In response, the Thursday XI continued their dominance, making an impressive 159-9 with notable performances from Groom (who scored 71 runs), Jack Walby (who contributed 22 runs) and Len Easton (who added 21 runs to the total). SATURDAY, 06 JUNE The 1st XI entertained GNR Institute in Hatfield Park, ultimately emerging victorious by 60 runs. GNR Institute struggled to get going and were dismissed for just 61 runs, with the trio of Rev. Wood, Alfred Fuller and Ernest Elliott wreaking havoc on the opposing team's batting line-up, taking 4-12, 3-16, and 3-18 respectively. Earlier in the match, Hatfield had

55 set a target of 121 runs, with Ireton Elliott being the highest scorer with an impressive 47 runs. Other notable contributions came from Arthur Warner (21), Wilfred Sewell (15), and Eddie Hickson (who remained unbeaten with 13). SATURDAY, 13 JUNE Hatfield had a dominant performance against Hill End Asylum, batting first and making a total of 86 runs. Alfred Fuller was the top scorer for the team, contributing 26 runs, while Eddie Hickson and Arthur Warner also made valuable contributions with 20 and 10 runs respectively. In the second half of the match, Hatfield's bowlers were in fine form, with Peter Ashton leading the charge by taking an impressive 7 wickets for just 24 runs. Hill End Asylum were ultimately dismissed for a paltry 44 runs. At the end of the day's play, Hatfield had made a tentative start to their second innings, reaching 12 for 4. The first news of the ‘A’ in 1914 was of a 10-run defeat against London Colney. The match was marked by Alfred Bracey, who took 5 wickets for Hatfield. However, the team's batting let them down, as they were all out for a mere 29 runs. London Colney fared only slightly better, finishing their innings on 39 runs, but it was enough to secure them the victory. SATURDAY, 20 JUNE Despite the challenge, Hatfield put up a strong performance, scoring 141 runs thanks in large part to an impressive knock by Ernest Elliott, who scored 72 runs. Other notable contributions included 22 runs from Rev. Wood, 12 from Wilfred Sewell, and an unbeaten 10 from Henry West. In response, William Lane's XI struggled against Hatfield's bowling attack, with Elliott taking a remarkable 9 wickets for just 39 runs. The match ended in a resounding victory for Hatfield. THURSDAY, 25 JUNE Despite making a highly respectable score of 153 (with contributions from William Groom, Alec Gow, Jack Walby, and Dan Ellingham), the Thursday XI at Hatfield Park were unable to defend their total against the Metropolitan Police 'A' team. The Police batsmen passed Hatfield's score for the loss of only two wickets, ultimately finishing with a total of 218 for 2.

56 SATURDAY, 27 JUNE The Hatfield Park derby finished with honours, quite literally, even, the scores being tied at 67 runs each. Ernest Elliott accounted for 8 of the Hatfield Estate wickets to fall. SATURDAY, 04 JULY The opponents of Hatfield 1st XI were not named in the report, but they provided a challenging match. Hatfield made a total of 89 runs, with contributions from Rev. Wood (13), Vincent Austin and Wilfred Sewell (12 each). The mystery team passed Hatfield's total for the loss of only 6 wickets, before being bowled out for 159 runs. Ernest Elliott was the top performer with the ball, taking 4 wickets for 51 runs, while Wood took 2 for 7, and Dan Ellingham and Austin took 2 wickets each, conceding 17 and 27 runs respectively. Despite Alfred Bracey taking 8 wickets, the 'A' team suffered a loss against North Mymms Village, with a final score of 80 runs to 27. THURSDAY, 16 JULY The Thursday XI played at Leavesden Asylum and after batting first, they were all out for 122. George Simmons top-scored with 55 runs, George Hemmings contributed 29 runs and Jack Walby scored 11. The home side was then bowled out for 73 runs, with Wilfred Newey taking 5 wickets for just 3 runs, and Ernest Household taking 2 wickets for 24 runs. The victory was by 49 runs. It's worth noting that George Simmons, who top-scored for Hatfield, usually played for Abbots Langley and also Herts County. SATURDAY, 18 JULY Hatfield 1st XI secured an 82-run victory over Welwyn at Hatfield Park. Batting first, Hatfield posted a total of 171 runs with Ernest Elliott leading the charge with 94 runs, supported by Charles Caesar's 21 and George Hemmings' 18. In reply, Welwyn struggled against Hatfield's bowling attack, with William Groom picking up 5 wickets for 21 runs and Arthur Warner and Rev. Wood contributing 2 and 1 wicket(s) respectively, as Welwyn were bowled out for just 93 runs. THURSDAY, 23 JULY In a match that saw the Hatfield XI include a trio of Latin American

57 players, White Leaf suffered a defeat by 97 runs at Hatfield Park. The opening partnership of Bartolo Montserrat (56) and Jack Walby (25) added 34 runs for the first wicket, helping Hatfield post a total of 148 runs. Wilfred Newey's contribution of 24 runs also proved valuable. In response, White Leaf were all out for a meagre 51 runs, with Dan Ellingham taking 6 wickets for 29 runs and Montserrat taking 2 for 9 runs. Montserrat’s fellow Argentinians Pedro Remonds and Miguel Cabanelles were also part of Hatfield's XI. All three were boarders at Dagmar House School. SATURDAY, 01 AUGUST Hatfield Estate emerged victorious in the Hatfield Park derby, as the Town club were bowled out for 62 (Gerry Carpenter top-scoring with 26, while Dan Ellingham remained not out on 12). The Estate club managed to pass the score for the loss of 6 wickets and eventually all out for 73. It was an unusual sight to see Ernest Elliott and Billy Watson, who were usually picked for the 1st XI, playing for the ‘A’ team against Highfield Hall. Watson was the top-scorer for the team with an unbeaten 33, as the ‘A’ team managed to post a total of 127. In response, Elliott picked up 5 wickets to restrict Highfield Hall to 103 for 8. MONDAY, 03 AUGUST On Bank Holiday Monday, an all-day cricket game was held under the shadow of the looming threat of war. The match featured an eleven put together by William Groom, who eventually won by five wickets. Hatfield batted first but could only manage 77 runs, with Tom Hickson scoring 28 and Dan Ellingham contributing 16. Groom's XI then passed the total and finished with a score of 139. It was essentially an inter-club game with Conrad and Ireton Horsey and Walter Bracey among Groom’s XI. SATURDAY, 15 AUGUST The outbreak of war had yet to bring ‘normality’ to a close, and Hatfield had a comfortable 73-run victory over Potters Bar. Batting first, Hatfield declared on 152 for 7, with Bartolo Montserrat (46), Eddie Hickson (31), Wilfred Sewell (29), Ernest Elliott (24), and Arthur Warner (16) all making significant contributions. In reply, Potters Bar were all out for 79, with Elliott taking 5-30 and Montserrat 4-15.

58 SATURDAY, 22 AUGUST The 1st XI travelled to Hill End Asylum, who batted first making 129 (Arthur Warner 4-28). Bartolo Montserrat (20) and Charles Sunderland (10) were the only Hatfield batsmen to reach double figures in a total of 57. SATURDAY, 29 AUGUST Here's a revised version: "In what would become the last recorded match for some time, St Albans ‘B’ visited Hatfield Park to face off against Hatfield. St Albans struggled to score, with their innings coming to an end at 81 after Ernest Elliott and Peter Ashton took five and three wickets respectively. In response, Hatfield put up a total of 129 for 6, with Elliott scoring 47 runs with Pedro Remonda (17), Alfred Fuller (17 not out), and Arthur Warner (16) also making valuable contributions. Although there are records of the occasional game of cricket taking place in Hatfield Park, the cricket club itself was suspended for the remainder of the 1914-1918 war. By the time the conflict was over, Cyril Austin, William Buck, Patrick Caesar, Harry Gregory and Ernest Household of the United Club had made the ultimate sacrifice.

59 1919 - 1922 FAREWELL TO HATFIELD PARK 1919 It would appear that another casualty of the Great War was the ‘United’ Club, for a General Meeting of Hatfield Cricket Club was held on Monday, 24 March, at the One Bell Hotel, attended by 27 members.† Henry West, who had taken on the role of Hon. Secretary submitted a report and balance sheet. The inventory of the club was then discussed, and the meeting recognised that they had practically to make a fresh start. It was decided to ask the assistance of Lord Salisbury concerning the ground, which needed immediate attention. Discussion followed concerning the Hatfield Estate Club, and the members present concluded that further progress could not be made until the intentions of the Estate Club were known. It was therefore decided that the meeting be adjourned to the following week, and Messrs H West and W Watson were appointed delegates to attend the Estate Club's general meeting. Further discussions were about ways and means of clearing off the cash deficit. A subsequent meeting was held, again at the One Bell Hotel, on Tuesday, 1 April, when it was reported that it was understood that the Estate Club would not be running a regular side in 1919. Having previously intimated an intention to resign as secretary, Henry West had had second thoughts and offered to continue on the condition that Bob Ray would act as Assistant Hon. Secretary. Ray was willing to do so, and they were duly elected. Billy Watson was elected captain, with William Groom as his vicecaptain. Elected to the committee were Frank Groom, Jack Walby, Thomas Cross, Charles Sunderland, Gerry Carpenter, Fred Hickson, Ernest Canney and Stanley Hankin. The appointment of a groundsman was left to the committee, and the secretary was to arrange as many fixtures as he thought advisable. How many fixtures were arranged is unknown, and match reports were few and far between. † There is no record of Hatfield Hyde CC returning until the 1922 season. SATURDAY, 31 MAY Played in Hatfield Park, Hatfield 150 (Charles Simpson 51, George Hemmings 39, Billy Watson 32), Essendon 139 (Albert Lawrence 4 wickets). Hatfield won by 11 runs.

60 Hatfield Cricket club rules - 1919

61 SATURDAY, 14 JUNE A 12-a-side match was played at Potters Bar, in which the home team was bowled out for only 51 runs with George Hemmings taking 6 wickets for 20 runs and Walter Bracey taking 5 wickets for 21 runs. Despite this, no Hatfield batsman was able to reach double figures, and they were also dismissed for a low total of 42. HATFIELD V. HITCHIN Hitchin sustained a somewhat heavy defeat at Hatfield on Saturday. Hatfield gained a victory by 52 runs, the total score of Hatfield being 113 as against Hitchin’s 61. The top individual score in the match was gained for Hatfield by W Bracey (32 not out), while A Stephen headed the Hitchin score with 24. Scores: HITCHIN HATFIELD A Stephen b Hemmings 24 G Carpenter c Buxton b Knight 9 C Buxton b Bracey 0 R Ray b Knight 4 H Knight b Hemmings 0 C Simpson b Knight 10 E Hodges c Carpenter b Hemmings 16 L Easton c Horsey b Knight 26 E J Newell b Bracey 1 G Hemmings b Knight 5 C Powles b Hemmings 1 E Hickson c Stephen b Knight 5 C Horsey b Bracey 1 A Lawrence run out 0 J J P Cole c Ganney b Bracey 0 A C Fuller c Knight b Cole 8 E T Palmer b Bracey 0 E Ganney b Cole 0 W Ellis not out 0 W Bracey not out 32 E Ward c Easton b Bracey 4 W R Watson run out 8 Extras 14 Extras 6 Total 61 Total 113 Hertfordshire Express and General Advertiser - 14 June 1919 HITCHIN V. HATFIELD Played at Hitchin on Saturday, the match ending in a decisive victory for the Hitchin Club, who, having dismissed Hatfield for 49, declared at 168, having three men still to bat. For having kept the Hatfield total so low, credit must be given to the effective bowling of Seymour. Nine of the eleven Hatfield players were either dismissed by Seymour or were caught from his bowling. The highest score of the match was that of Mr A Brownscombe, who compiled 16 for Hitchin, thus almost eclipsing the total score of the visitors. Mr Brownscombe, headmaster of one of the Canterbury Colleges, was on a visit to Hitchin. Mr W J C Allen who is proving a useful player with the Hitchin Club this season, scored 37 in Saturday's match.

62 SATURDAY, 30 AUGUST The Hatfield cricket team travelled to Harpenden and won against the home club's 2nd XI. Harpenden batted first but were all out for 71 with George Hemmings taking 7 wickets. Hatfield chased down the target by reaching a total of 105 with contributions from Leonard Easton and Eddie Hickson, who scored 27 and 28 runs respectively. HATFIELD HITCHIN I Horsey b Seymour 3 W J C Allen c T Hickson b Sapsed 37 L Cox b Seymour 1 C Buxton c E J Hickson b Blackett 2 B Blackett b Seymour 3 H Knight c Blackett b Cox 4 L Easton c Allen b Seymour 1 E J Hodges c Cox b Sapsed 13 B Sapsed c Brownscombe b Seymour5 A Brownscombec and b Hickson 46 E J Hickson hit wicket b Stephen 5 T Bourlet c Cox b Groom 13 F Groom c Knight b Seymour 1 W R Turtle not out 17 W R Watson b Seymour 8 A Baxter not out 17 T Hickson c Hodges b Seymour 2 E Groom c and b Seymour 10 E Hickson not out 0 Extras 10 Extras 19 Total 49 Total for 6 wickets 168 Hertfordshire Express and General Advertiser - 23 August 1919

63 1920 The club's General Meeting was held on Tuesday, 6 April, at the One Bell Inn, with Billy Watson presiding over a well-attended gathering of members, as was customary. At the club's General Meeting held on Tuesday, 6 April, the secretary, Henry West, presented the balance sheet, which indicated a cash sum in hand of £54 15s 11d. It was suggested that the money should be used to purchase a much-needed tent or pavilion. E J Dunham, the club's former secretary who resigned in 1900, proposed the adoption of the balance sheet and praised the current secretary and other officers for their hard work and dedication during a challenging period. It was proposed that the decision regarding the groundsman's agreement should be left to the secretary and the committee would be responsible for the provision of a tent or pavilion. Billy Watson was re-elected as captain, with George ‘Gerry’ Carpenter as the new vice-captain, and Marcus ‘Jack’ Walby became captain of the Thursday XI with Leonard Cox as vice. Henry West and Bob Ray reHATFIELD CRICKET CLUB. Season 1920 Hatfield Cricket Club. SEASON 1920. President: The Marquis of Salisbury, K.G., G.C.V.O., C.B. Ground: HATFIELD PARK. Colours: Blue and White.

64 mained in position in the secretaryship, and the new committee consisted of Ernest Elliott (who was missing last season but had now returned from Mesopotamia), Vincent Scott, Frank Groom, Alfred Fuller, A E Powell, Fred Hickson, Eddie Hickson, Charles Sunderland, Ralph Whitby and Stan Hankin. SATURDAY, 15 MAY In a 12-a-side match at Hatfield Park, Hatfield defeated their neighboring team, North Mymms, by 11 runs, although the scores were not recorded. George Hemmings was the star performer, taking 6 wickets for 27 runs and top-scoring with 22. Ernest Elliott also bowled impressively, claiming 5 wickets for 24 runs, while Elliott and Eddie Hickson were the only other Hatfield batsmen to reach double figures, scoring 16 and 11 runs respectively. Saturday Team. DATE OPPONENTS GROUND May 8 St. Marks Away “ 15 North Mimms Home “ 22 Essendon Away “ 22 Tyler’s Athletic Away 29 Potters Bar Home June 5 Hertingfordbury Away “ 12 St. Peter’s, Bowes Pk. Home “ 19 Harpenden Away “ 19 Ware Away “ 26 St. Marks Home 26 Hertford Town Away July 3 St. Andrews, Hertford Away “ 10 G.N. Institute Home “ 10 Bayford Away “ 17 Potters Bar Away “ 24 St. Andrews, Hertford Home 31 Hill End Away Aug. 7 Hertingfordbury Home “ 14 North Mimms Away “ 21 Essendon Home “ 28 Hill End Away Sept. 4 Bayford Home Thursday Team. Bank Holidays. DATE CLUB GROUND May 13 Chipping Barnet Home “ 27 Hertford Town Away June 3 Bowes Park Home “ 10 Winchmore Hill Away “ 17 Bowes Park Away “ 24 Potters Bar Away July 8 Potters Bar Home “ 22 Chipping Barnet Away “ 29 Winchmore Hill Home Aug. 12 Hoddesdon Away Sept. 2 Hoddesdon Home DATE CLUB GROUND May 24 Married v. Single 11.0 Home Aug. 2 Hatfield Estate Away

65 SATURDAY, 22 MAY According to the fixture card, Hatfield had two matches scheduled for this day. In what is believed to be the 1st XI fixture, Hatfield were bowled out for a paltry 27 runs (with Ernest Elliott scoring 14), and Essendon chased down the target to win the match with a total of 43 runs. Ted Palmer starred with the ball, taking 8 wickets for just 19 runs, while Billy Watson chipped in with 2 wickets for 3 runs. Meanwhile, in the other match played at New Southgate, Tylers Athletic posted a total of 122 runs, and then bowled out Hatfield for 68 runs. George Hemmings was the only notable performer for Hatfield, scoring 41 runs, but his effort wasn't enough to prevent Tylers Athletic from securing a 54-run victory. THURSDAY, 27 MAY At Balls Park, Hatfield’s Thursday XI trounced Hertford by 94 runs. Hatfield scored 108 (Watt 41 not out) and rolled the home side over for just OFFICERS. Captain: Mr. W. R. WATSON. Vice- Captain: Mr. G. CARPENTER. Captain Thursday XI: Mr. M. J. WALBY. Vice- Captain: Mr. L. COX. Committee: Mr. E. ELLIOTT, Mr. E. J. HICKSON Mr. A. O. FULLER Mr. A E POWELL Mr. F. GROOM Mr. V.J. SCOTT Mr. S. C. HANKIN Mr. C. SUNDERLAND Mr. F. HICKSON Mr. R. E. WHITBY HON. Secretary and Treasurer: Mr. HENRY WEST. 2 Endymion Road, Hatfield. Assist. HON. Secretary: Mr. R. RAY.

66 14, Leonard Cox with the somewhat impressive figures of 7 for 2! SATURDAY, 29 MAY Potters Bar visited Hatfield Park and were defeated by 55 runs. Hatfield were bowled out for 154 (George Hemmings 56, Ernest Elliott 35, Eddie Hickson 30), Potters Bar 99. THURSDAY, 03 JUNE The home side, Hatfield, won a closely contested match by just 6 runs in Hatfield Park. Hatfield batted first and scored 113 runs with Alec Gow (26), Stan Hankin (25), and Steabben (18) being the main contributors. In response, Bowes Park could only manage 107 runs, thanks to some excellent bowling by Len Cox (6-49) and Albert Lawrence (3-26). SATURDAY, 05 JUNE Thanks to an outstanding bowling performance by George Hemmings, who took 6 wickets for just 4 runs, Hertingfordbury was dismissed for a paltry 32 runs, falling 65 runs short of Hatfield’s total of 97 runs, with Bert Sapsford and Ernest Elliott both contributing 28 runs each to the team's score. THURSDAY, 10 JUNE The away match against Winchmore Hill resulted in a victory for the home side, as they posted a total of 108 runs (with Garside taking 4 wickets for 19 runs), while Hatfield was bowled out for 86 runs (Ireton Horsey topscoring with 20 runs). THURSDAY, 17 JUNE Hatfield's poor batting performance let them down in their match against Winchmore Hill, as none of the players managed to reach double figures, resulting in a total score of 40. Winchmore Hill had scored 103 in their innings, with Garside taking 5 wickets for 24 runs and Leonard Cox taking 4 wickets for 39 runs. SATURDAY, 19 JUNE On this occasion, Hatfield fielded two elevens, with both playing away from home. The stronger of the two sides faced Harpenden's 2nd XI, who

67 were one of the strongest clubs in Hertfordshire at the time. Batting first, Hatfield made 64 (with Charles Simpson scoring 29). Ernest Elliott and Eddie Hickson put up a fine bowling display, which led to Harpenden's dismissal for 52 and a 12-run victory for Hatfield. Meanwhile, the other XI played at Ware, but lost by 17 runs. Hatfield scored 26, while Ware made 52 (Ted Palmer taking 5-16 and Watts taking 5-21). THURSDAY, 24 JUNE There was no report in the Herts advertiser, however, Stanley Hankin recorded the result on his fixture card. Hatfield, 45, beat Potters Bar, all out for 24, by 21 runs. THURSDAY, 08 JULY The second victory of the season against Potters Bar was almost singlehandedly set up by Leonard Cox. He top-scored with 25 in Hatfield’s innings of 90 and then decimated the Potters Bar batsmen with 9 wickets for 29, resulting in the home club being all out for 58. SATURDAY, 10 JULY Hatfield once again fielded two teams on this occasion. Presumably, the 1st XI played at Hatfield Park against Great Northern Institute, who were bowled out for just 59 runs, with Ernest Elliott taking 5 wickets for just 3 runs, and Bert Sapsford picking up 2 wickets for no runs. Hatfield chased down the target and finished on a commanding 123 runs, with Eddie Hickson remaining unbeaten on 47 runs. Meanwhile, the other Hatfield team visited Bayford but lost the match by 43 runs. Bayford made 91 runs with Percy Mardell taking 5 wickets for 37 runs, and Stanley Willson picking up 3 wickets for 32 runs. In response, Hatfield could only manage to score 48 runs before getting all out, with Mardell scoring 18 runs. SATURDAY, 24 JULY The match between St. Andrews (Hertford) and Hatfield resulted in a victory for Hatfield, who scored 101-6 with Ernest Elliott top-scoring with 43, after bowling St. Andrews out for 91. It is presumed that this is the same St. Andrews team that Hatfield played previously in Hertingfordbury.

68 SATURDAY, 31 JULY Hatfield scored a 43-run victory on their trip to Hill End Mental Hospital, as they bowled out the home team for 40 runs (Ted Palmer 5-24, George Hemmings 3-14), before successfully chasing the target with a total of 83 runs (Bert Sapsford top-scoring with 21). SATURDAY, 07 AUGUST The match between Hertingfordbury and Hatfield at Hatfield Park was characterized by both sides' "smart fielding," with Vincent Scott receiving praise for his display behind the stumps. In a closely fought game, Hatfield emerged victorious by just 3 runs, with Hertingfordbury being bowled out for 75, thanks in large part to George Hemmings' impressive figures of 6-34, and Hatfield reaching their target with a score of 78, with Bert Sapsford top-scoring with 21. THURSDAY, 12 AUGUST The Thursday XI suffered a humiliating defeat at Hoddesdon, as the home team declared on 213 for 6 and bowled out Hatfield for just 15, leaving a deficit of 198 runs. Although not reported in the newspaper, Stan Hankin's fixture card indicates that Hatfield batted again and were bowled out for 72. SATURDAY, 14 AUGUST North Mymms 81, Hatfield 38. No other details were reported. SATURDAY, 21 AUGUST Another score from Stanley Hankin’s fixture card. Hatfield 140, Essendon 34. SATURDAY, 28 AUGUST Stanley Hankin recorded a 50-run victory at Hill End Asylum. Hatfield 87, Hill End 37. SATURDAY, 04 SEPTEMBER The final match of the 1920 season resulted in a 20-run victory in Hatfield Park. Hatfield made 83 and Bayford were bowled out for 63 (George Hemmings 5-33).

69 The players of Hatfield Cricket Club gathered for the end-of-season Club Dinner on Saturday, September 11, 1920, at the One Bell Hotel. This was the first time the event had been held since the outbreak of World War One. The dinner's Chair, Frederick Speaight, presented George Hemmings and Ted Palmer with bats supplied by the club for leading the batting and bowling averages, respectively, during the season.

70 1921 For the 1921 season, Ernest Elliott replaced Billy Watson as captain and Eddie Hickson took over as vice-captain. Gerry Carpenter, Ernest Ganney, George Hemmings and Billy Watson joined the committee in place of A E Powell and Ralph Whitby, the captain’s brother, Ernest, was appointed as umpire, and the vice-captain’s brother, Frank, as a scorer. An apparent change of editorial policy at the Herts Advertiser, the outcome of which was the near complete absence of cricket from its pages throughout the summer. Consequently, not a single result of Hatfield’s campaign is known. The Club Dinner was held on Thursday, 6 October at the One Bell Hotel, and this was considered worthy of a place in the newspaper. From this, the following information on the club’s playing performances has been gleaned: The Saturday sides had played 27 matches, won 14, lost 11, drawn 1, and 1 had been abandoned. The Thursday XI had played 14, won 3, lost 9, and drawn 2. Ireton Horsey topped the batting with an average of 17.63, and George Hemmings headed the bowling with an average of 5.7. They each received a bat for those achievements. 1922 The 1922 fixture card indicated that there was a change in the secretaryship, as Leslie Gray took over from Henry West, while Bob Ray continued as the Assistant Hon. Secretary, and there were no changes in the captaincies. The club's committee underwent several changes, with Victor Cull, Ted Groom, Harry Taylor, Fred Weedon, and Henry West replacing Alfred Fuller, Ernest Ganney, George Hemmings, Vincent Scott, and Jack Walby. Evidently, there had been a volt-face from the Herts Advertiser, with cricket returning to its pages. SATURDAY, 06 MAY Although there was no report in the Herts Advertiser, Harry Taylor noted on his fixture card that Potters Bar emerged victorious over Hatfield in their match at Hatfield Park. SATURDAY, 13 MAY The newly formed Welwyn Garden City played Hatfield in the previous season, but the result is unknown. In this match, the two clubs met at Wel-

71 wyn's first ground, which is now where the John Lewis store is located. Welwyn were bowled out for 46 with Ted Palmer taking 6 wickets for 17 runs, and Ernest Elliott taking 3 wickets for 9 runs. At the close of play, Hatfield had reached 100 for 6 with Stan Willson scoring 29 and Elliott scoring 31. SATURDAY, 20 MAY Hertford Town enjoyed their stay at Hatfield Park, winning by 65 runs. Hertford made 114 runs, with Ted Palmer taking 3-33 and Eddie Hickson and J Holland each taking 2 wickets. In reply, Hatfield could only muster 49 runs with Ted Groom being the highest scorer. This is the first mention of Ted Groom, who would go on to have a long playing career lasting until 1952. As he was now on the committee, it is likely that he made his debut in a previous season. THURSDAY, 25 MAY The first mention of the Thursday XI in 1922 was in a match against Bowes Park at Hatfield Park, where the visitors made 133 (Fred Weedon 4-48, Jack Walby 3-27). In an embarrassing display, the home side was bowled out for only 17 runs, resulting in a 116-run victory for Bowes Park. SATURDAY, 27 MAY Hatfield journeyed to Welwyn and were defeated by 26 runs. Hatfield 73, Welwyn 96 (Ernest Elliott 5-28, Ted Palmer 3-39, Alfred Fuller 2-11). MONDAY, 29 MAY The press made its first mention of the club's annual inter-club match between the Married and Single teams. The two teams competed for a silver cup, presented to the club by the officers and men of the 1/10th County of London Regiment as a token of gratitude for the use of the ground in Hatfield Park during the 1914-18 war. Since 1919, this match had become a regular fixture for the club. In a 16-a-side match, the Single team scored 191 runs before dismissing the Married team for 134. SATURDAY, 03 JUNE Hatfield had an immediate opportunity for revenge at Welwyn, but narrowly missed out by a margin of just 5 runs. Despite Eddie Hickson and

72 Ernest Elliott each scoring 30 runs, and Charles Simpson remaining unbeaten on 13, the remaining eight batsmen contributed only 10 runs (excluding extras). To make matters worse, it seems that the club's disabled umpire, Ernest Hickson, was batting in the No. 11 position. The 2nd XI, meanwhile, were in action in Hatfield Park. Bengeo 70 (Arthur Strebbings 6-12, Holland 3-13), Hatfield 40. SATURDAY, 10 JUNE The Hatfield team achieved a resounding victory at Essendon, bowling out the home side for just 51 runs thanks to the excellent bowling of Ernest Elliott and Charles Simpson, who took four wickets each. Hatfield then went on to make 99 runs, with contributions from Ted Groom and Cyril Dunham scoring 20 and 16 runs respectively. SATURDAY, 17 JUNE The return match at Hatfield Park saw an even more dominant performance from the home side, as they declared on 163 for 7 and proceeded to bowl Essendon out for just 26 runs. Ted Palmer was the standout bowler, taking 6 wickets for 12 runs, while Charles Simpson chipped in with 4 wickets for 6 runs. THURSDAY, 22 JUNE Unusually, the first Hatfield Park derby of the season occurred on a weekday. Hatfield Thursday 59, Hatfield Estate 70 for 8. SATURDAY, 01 JULY Hatfield secured a comprehensive victory against Welwyn Garden City at Hatfield Park. Welwyn batted first and made 68 runs, with Ted Palmer taking 5 wickets for 29 runs and Ernest Elliott taking 3 wickets for 16 runs. Hatfield passed the target and finished on 146 for 6, with Leonard Cox scoring 56 runs and Elliott 54. The scores are unknown, but the 2nd XI beat Hatfield Hyde. SATURDAY, 08 JULY Digswell v. Hatfield. Match drawn. No details are known.

73 THURSDAY, 13 JULY The Hatfield team suffered a crushing defeat at Balls Park, where despite Ted Groom's contribution of 49 runs, the team could only manage a total of 100 all out. Hertford's strong batting lineup easily chased down the target, scoring 216 for 6. SATURDAY, 15 JULY The match at Hatfield Park resulted in honours being even after an enthralling high-scoring draw. Hoddesdon scored a total of 167 runs, with Ted Palmer being the standout bowler as he took 5 wickets for 39 runs. In response, Hatfield 1st XI managed to score 120 runs for the loss of 7 wickets, with Eddie Hickson top-scoring with 30 runs. Meanwhile, the 2nd XI team traveled to Horns Mill in Hertford but were defeated by 55 runs to 38. THURSDAY, 20 JULY In a thrilling low-scoring match at Potters Bar, the home team managed to edge past their opponents by just three runs. Hatfield struggled to put runs on the board, ending their innings with a meagre total of 26 runs. Hatfield’s bowlers, led by Charles Simpson with 6 wickets for 9 runs and Fred Moore with 3 wickets for 12 runs, made it difficult for Potters Bar to score. However, Potters Bar eventually passed the target with a total of just 29 runs SATURDAY, 22 JULY Hatfield suffered another defeat as runs remained scarce in their match against Hill End Hospital. Despite a promising innings of 30 by Eddie Hickson, Hatfield could only muster a total of 49. In response, Hill End struggled to chase down the target, ultimately ending their innings at 50 for 7 with Ernest Elliott taking 3-16. SATURDAY, 29 JULY Brunswick Institute were bowled out for 135, thanks to Ted Palmer's spell of 5 for 69 and Harold Quarrie's 2 for 38. The target proved to be more than enough for Hatfield's batting line-up, who were skittled out for a mere 88 with Eddie Hickson top-scoring with 27. Meanwhile, the 2nd XI took on St Mark's at Wild Hill. St Mark's set a

74 challenging target of 138, before Hatfield's batting collapsed and they were bowled out for just 33. MONDAY, 07 AUGUST On Bank Holiday Monday, Hatfield played a return match against the Estate, but this time it was the Town Club who emerged victorious by 11 runs. The Estate's innings was cut short at just 71 runs, thanks to Billy Watson's impressive figures of 6-19 and Ernest Elliott's 4-17. In response, Hatfield managed to chase down the target, eventually reaching 82 runs with contributions from Eddie Hickson (16) and Ted Groom (14). HATFIELD HAMMER HODDESDON Visiting Hoddesdon, Hatfield defeated the home club by 73 runs. Scores:– HATFIELD HODDESDON E Groom b Edwards 8 Han b Holland A Gow lbw b Housdon 28 Housden b W Groom 6 W Groom not out 76 Hampton b W Groom 2 H H Taylor b Edwards 1 Shepherd b Holland 5 W Holland c Walker b Edwards 7 Griffen b Holland 0 S Hankin b Housden 4 Knight c Taylor b W Groom 12 J Rumney c Hammond b Edwards 0 Edwards b Holland 5 Sayers b Edwards 2 Symes not out 21 S Hart b Edwards 1 Walker b Holland 2 A Stebbings b Edwards 0 Randall b Holland 2 F Weedon b Housden 0 Hammond b Holland 4 Extras 8 Extras 1 Total 135 Total 62 Bowling: W Holland 7 for 31, W Groom 3 for 30 Herts Advertiser - 19 August 1922 ST ALBANS ‘A’ BEAT HATFIELD Although Hatfield fielded a good side in their home match with St Albans ‘A’, they had to acknowledge defeat by 66 runs. Hatfield found the excellent bowling of Sampson and Briggs too good for them. H C Hinder showed much promise for the visitors. Scores:– ST ALBANS ’A’ HATFIELD F C Morogon c Fuller b Palmer 25 E J Hickson c and b Sampson 7 R W Heams b Palmer 1 L Cox b Briggs 1 G Morrison b Palmer 0 E Groom b Sampson 9 A C Sampson b Palmer 13 G Hemmings c Phillips b Sampson 3 R G Catchpole c Taylor b Palmer 7 E Elliott b Sampson 0 H C Binder not out 19 W L Sayers c Catchpole b Sampson 0 A E Briggs c Cox b Palmer 13 A Fuller b Briggs 8

75 THURSDAY, 31 AUGUST In a low-scoring affair at Hatfield Park, the home team suffered a defeat by 14 runs. Despite a disciplined performance by the bowlers, with Leslie Gray taking an impressive 5-16 and Billy Watson chipping in with 4-26, Hatfield struggled with the bat and could only manage a paltry total of 32. Potters Bar, although not much better, were able to score 46 and clinch the victory. SATURDAY, 02 SEPTEMBER In a match played at Balls Park, Hatfield batted first and scored 79 runs, with Alfred Fuller top-scoring with 18. However, their total proved to be insufficient as Hertford chased it down comfortably, finishing their innings E J Smith c Richardson b Sayers 5 R Ray not out 4 D Saltmarsh c Fuller b Sayers 0 D Richardson c Catchpole b Briggs 0 G Butterfield b Palmer 12 E Palmer b Sampson 0 R F Phillips b Palmer 4 F Taylor b Sampson 0 Extras 6 Extras 7 Total 105 Total 8 Bowling: E Palmer 8 for 27, W L Sayers 2 for 13, L Cox 0 for 10, E Elliott 0 for 13, G Hemmings 0 for 36. Bowling: A C Sampson 7 for 23, A E Briggs 3 for 10. Herts Advertiser - 26 August 1922 HATFIELD DEFEAT STROUD GREEN At Hatfield, on Saturday, the home club defeated Stroud Green by 36 runs. Scores:– STROUD GREEN HATFIELD Forster b Hemmings 0 E J Hickson b H Crook 9 Peddar c Willson b Palmer 2 G Carpenter b H Crook 1 A Parks b Palmer 2 E Groom b H Crook 29 K W Crafts b Palmer 1 W Groom b Peddar 0 J Heargerty b Hemmings 2 A O Fuller b Heargerty 4 W Anniss b Hemmings 15 E Elliott c Reid b Heargerty 5 H Crook run out 6 G Hemmings b Heargerty 0 A Peddar b Palmer 1 S Wilson c Anniss b Heargerty 2 W Colman run out 3 W L Sayers not out 5 J Smith not out 2 R Ray b Heargerty 0 G Reid b Hemmings 1 E Palmer b Heargerty 5 Extras 5 Extras 15 Total 40 Total 76 Bowling: E Palmer 4 for 13, G Hemmings 4 for 22. Herts Advertiser - 02 September 1922

76 at 124 for 6. Ted Palmer was the pick of the bowlers for Hatfield, taking 4 wickets for 38 runs. SATURDAY, 09 SEPTEMBER The final known on-field action of the season saw Stroud Green exacting revenge on Hatfield, winning by a margin of 34 runs. Hatfield 96 (Ted Groom 25), Stroud Green 130. Two Into One Won’t Go By the end of the 1920 season, tensions had risen between the Town club and the Estate club due to conflicts arising from the shared use of the ground in Hatfield Park. With the Estate club now established and playing regularly since resuming after the war, and the Town club able to raise a 2nd XI, it was clear that the two clubs had outgrown sharing the ground. While the Town club had been playing in the Park for many decades and felt they had "squatters' rights," the fledgling Estate club considered the venue to be its 'works' ground. Whilst the library at Hatfield House retained transcripts of the replies sent to Henry West, we can only speculate as to the questions raised and as to which club initially made the request that one of them be relocated. On 23 September 1920, West had written to J C McCowan, the Estate Agent, and received the following reply. Dear Sir HATFIELD CRICKET CLUB Adverting to your letter of the 23rd ulto. Lord Cranborne has very carefully gone into the question of the provision of a new ground. His Lordship finds himself in a very great difficulty over the proposal as naturally, the Estate Club feel very strongly that they should not be the club to be turned off what is recognised as the cricket ground of the Park. Lord Salisbury's promise as to making a new ground either for the Town club or for the Estate club still stands; his Lordship, therefore, thinks, under the circumstances that the two clubs should settle the matter between themselves.

77 Failing an amicable settlement between the two clubs the system carried out last year will have to be continued. Yours faithfully J C McCowan Discussions regarding the relocation of the Estate club from Hatfield Park continued during the off-season, and on March 15, McCowan offered to meet with the club's committee on the Show Field on March 19 at 2:15 p.m. However, it is unclear whether the club accepted the offer at that time. It is believed that suggestions were made to relocate the Estate club to the old racecourse, but this option became unavailable as it was chosen as the new venue for the Herts Agricultural Show. On October 11, 1921, McCowan wrote to West, informing him that Lord Salisbury had been unable to find an alternative ground for the Estate club. It remains unclear whether serious thought was given to moving the Estate club, or if it was simply a tactic used by Salisbury. Henry West likely expressed concern about the lack of progress in finding an alternative ground, prompting the following response on October 26, 1921, which sought to provide assurances on the matter. Dear Mr West In reply to your letter of the 13 inst. Lord Salisbury’s promise to lay out a cricket pitch somewhere outside the Park for the Town Club still stands. Yours Faithfully, J C McCowan. At its meeting on March 20, 1922, the Hatfield United FC committee formed a sub-committee to explore the possibility of Hatfield CC sharing the Show Field that summer, as the football club had relocated to that ground in 1920. The football club's General Committee held a Special Meeting on March 27 to consider the sub-committee's proposal “that the football club should endeavour to obtain ground on leasehold terms at cheapest rent; also that recovery can be made by sub-letting for cricket, other sport and sheep grazing”. These proposals were accepted, and on May 22, 1922, the football club's General Committee considered a letter from the cricketers requesting a meeting between the two sub-committees to discuss the ground share proposal. A meeting was arranged for May 29, with representatives from both clubs in attendance.

78 The sub-committees met as planned, under the chairmanship of Henry West. The Cricket Club was represented by Fred Weedon, Charles Sunderland, Leslie Gray (who by now had succeeded West as Hon. Secretary), Gerry Carpenter, Victor Cull and Billy Watson (who was also a footballer). The two sides decided unanimously to recommend to their respective club committees that the Football Club take over the lease for the whole of the Show Field and become responsible for 5/6ths of the rent and the Cricket Club 1/6th and that 3 members of each club be appointed as a ground committee, and that the field be let for sheep grazing! In the event that any cash was obtained from lettings for grazing each club was to share it prorata to their liability for rent - this arrangement was to endure for 12 months and in the meantime, the question of amalgamation of both clubs would be considered. The lease of the ground from Gascoyne-Cecil Estates was previously held by Walter H Humphreys who sub-let it to Hatfield United FC. Walter was the father-in-law of Bob Ray who was Assistant Hon. Secretary of the cricket club at this time. It seems that the sub-committees of Hatfield United FC and Hatfield CC met under the chairmanship of Henry West to discuss the possibility of a ground share at the Show Field in the summer of 1922. The two sides unanimously agreed to recommend to their respective club committees that A working party at the Show Field in 1920, preparing for the Football Club to move into the ground. Such were the links between the Football and Cricket clubs, the party includes Fred Hickson, Ernest Elliott, Harry Taylor, Frank Groom, Ernest Hickson, Billy Watson, Cyril Dunham, Ted Groom and Tom Hickson, all of whom had connections to the cricket club.

79 the Football Club take over the lease for the whole of the Show Field and become responsible for 5/6ths of the rent and the Cricket Club 1/6th. Additionally, they agreed to appoint 3 members from each club as a ground committee and let the field for sheep grazing, with any cash obtained from lettings to be shared pro-rata to their liability for rent. This arrangement was to endure for 12 months, during which time the question of amalgamation of both clubs would be considered. The lease of the ground from Gascoyne-Cecil Estates was previously held by Walter H Humphreys who sub-let it to Hatfield United FC, and Walter was the father-in-law of Bob Ray who was Assistant Hon. Secretary of the cricket club at the time.

80 1923 - 1927 HATFIELD UNITED CC 2.0 - THE SHOW FIELD GROUND At a meeting of the General Committee of Hatfield United FC on 19 June 1922, Tom Hickson proposed, seconded by George Cheek, a resolution stating that "amalgamation with the Cricket Club" should be on the agenda for consideration at the club's half-yearly General Meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, 27 June. The resolution was adopted and evidently carried at the meeting. As a result, a Special General Meeting of the football club was called for Monday, 10 July, to appoint six members from its General Committee to meet with six members of the Cricket Club's committee, who had agreed to pursue amalgamation at their own General Meeting. The football club deemed it advisable that the clubs meet to discuss any matters arising from such a potential amalgamation and to suggest recommendations to put before its members at the next General Meeting. Its sub-committee was tasked with putting forward the following suggestions: 1. That a General Committee of 13 comprising six football and cricket representatives be appointed with the addition of a Chairman to serve for 12 months. 2. That the General Committee meets at least once a month. 3. That sub-committees of 5 be appointed for each club to select teams and one of the General Committee be appointed as Chairman of the Selection sub-committees. 4. That a combined General Secretary, Treasurer, and two other secretaries for the football and cricket activities be appointed. The negotiations were satisfactory, and the Hatfield United Athletic Club was established, with Hatfield CC becoming the Cricket Section of the new organization. Billy Watson, the General Secretary of HUAC (Bob Ray had become Hon. Secretary of the cricket section), received the following letter on 17 October 1922 regarding the new cricket ground: Dear Sir I am obliged for yours of the 16th inst. enclosing Agreement signed. Mr Gow will arrange with Council to locate the cricket pitch as far as it can be spaced from the Tennis Club. I am instructing Mr Marshall to find you material for the erection of a shed the same as the old Cricket Club will leave in

81 the Cart Stables Yard. Yours faithfully J C McCowan The cricketers of Hatfield were now able to focus on developing their club without the restrictions of sharing a ground with the estate club and the limitations of occupying a private ground on a grace and favour basis, under the leadership of new captain Alfred Fuller. In the beginning, the cricketers had to share accommodation with the footballers at the Show Field. However, by the end of the first season, a materials shed had been transformed into a separate pavilion for cricket with the help of interested members and friends. John Gray remembered this as a pavilion that stood on a slight mound beneath a mature tree just north of where the Welwyn Hatfield Council offices were eventually built in St Albans Road East, Hatfield, and adjacent to where the Crop Common street sign now stands. Hatfield circa 1925. The cricket pitch and pavilion were towards the south-west corner of the Show Field ground.

82 SATURDAY, 28 APRIL With the Show Field probably still being used for football, the club had been forced to seek permission to play its first fixture of 1923 in Hatfield Park. The visitors, St Albans 2nd XI, were dismissed for only 30 (William Groom 4-13, Ted Palmer 4-16), with Hatfield United scoring 99 (Ted Groom 23) to make a winning start. SATURDAY, 12 MAY Hatfield was likely unable to win at Potters Bar due to rain. After being bowled out for 40 runs, with Eddie Hickson scoring 19, Hatfield had managed to reduce the home team to 25 for 7 wickets, with Ted Palmer taking 4 wickets and Ernest Elliott taking 3, when the game was interrupted by weather conditions. SATURDAY, 19 MAY Playing away to Barnet PSA, Hatfield were defeated by 12 runs. Barnet 133 (Ernest Elliott 5-37, Ted Palmer 4-51), Hatfield 121 (Elliott 71, Eddie Hickson 27, Gerry Carpenter 11). MONDAY, 21 MAY The official opening of the Show Field ground occurred on the Whitsun Bank Holiday, with a 13-a-side cricket match between the club's over 32- year-olds and those under that age. Alfred Whitby officially opened the ground and received an over bowled by the team captain, Alfred Fuller. He also offered to present a bat to the first member who scored a 50 and a cricket ball to the first member who bowled a hat-trick. The over-32s won a two-innings match by 66 runs. SATURDAY, 26 MAY In their next match away at Herts County Mental Hospital, Hatfield's 1st XI suffered a defeat by 29 runs. Hill End posted a total of 108 runs, with Ernest Elliott taking 4 wickets for 19 runs and Ted Palmer taking 3 wickets for 27 runs. In reply, Hatfield managed to score 79 runs, with contributions from Alfred Fuller (15) and Eddie Hickson (14). HATFIELD II V. WELWYN GARDEN CITY On Saturday the Welwyn Garden City Cricket Club journeyed to Hatfield

83 SATURDAY, 09 JUNE In a closely contested match, Hatfield's 1st XI suffered a narrow defeat at the hands of Hertford by a margin of just 4 runs. Hertford were bowled out for 61 runs, with William Sayers taking 4 wickets for 21 runs, while Walter Holland, Ernest Elliott, and William Smith also chipped in with 3, 2, and 2 wickets respectively. In response, Hatfield managed to score only 57 runs, with Eddie Hickson contributing 16 runs to the team's total. firmly bent on reversing the position as left last season. This they achieved by compiling 75 runs against tho Hatfield Cricket Club's total of 19. A very different and highly gratifying result compared with last season' contest. The Pilot - 01 June 1923 The Welwyn Garden City Cricket Club beat Hatfield United Cricket Club on Saturday, May 26, at Hatfield, by 56 runs, making the fifth win in succession that the Club have gained this season. The credit for the win undoubtedly rests on the bowling of Holman and Hemmings as the W.G.C. total of 75 was not a large one, and was indeed thought to be insufficient against such a team as Hatfield. WELWYN GARDEN CITY HATFIELD UNITED II W Holman b Quarrie 1 R Ray c Selby b Holman 5 R Reiss run out 7 F Groom c Hemmings b Holman 0 E Selley run out 20 W Sayers b Hemmings 4 H Fry b Quarrie 0 E Ward b Hemmings 2 H Gossip run out 0 H Quarrie b Hemmings 0 G Hemmings b Quarrie 8 F Hickson st Fry b Hemmings 4 F Beaumont lbw b Stebbings 1 A Stebbings b Hemmings 0 S Yuill not out 7 S Dunham b Hemmings 1 North b Quarrie 12 F Elliott b Holman 2 C Care c Quarrie b Sayers 4 R Bowes run out 1 F Oughton b Sayers 6 Kentish not out 0 Extras 9 Extras 0 Total 75 Total 19 O M R W Quarrie 14.0 3 29 4 Sayers 8.0 1 24 2 Stebbings 6.0 1 13 1 Welwyn Garden City News - 01 June 1923 WELWYN GARDEN CITY V. HATFIELD UNITED The Welwyn Garden City Cricket Club were at home on Saturday last against Hatfield United Cricket Club, when they were beaten by to runs in a remarkably slow-scoring game. The home club were not able to put their strongest team into play, but the loss was due to several chances being missed in the field.

84 SATURDAY, 30 JUNE The 1st XI played at Nomansland Common in Wheathampstead, but suffered a 47-run defeat to the home team. Wheathampstead scored 103 runs (with Ernest Elliott taking 5-36, and Alfred Fuller, William Sayers, and Alf Reynolds taking 2 wickets each), while Hatfield were bowled out for just 56 runs (with Charles Simpson scoring 22 and Sayers 10) THURSDAY, 05 JULY Other than the fact that Bowes Park beat Hatfield by 16 runs, no details are recorded. SATURDAY, 07 JULY The 2nd XI of Hatfield United Athletic Club played at the Show Field, where they won their match by 10 runs. Hatfield scored 73 runs, with notable contributions from Boy Ray (14), Cyril Dunham (18), and Whitney Dickinson (15). Horns Antello fell short, scoring only 63 runs. No news was reported on the 1st team's activities. SATURDAY, 21 JULY In a closely contested match at the Show Field, only one run separated the sides. Brunswick Institute batted first and scored 67 runs (Ernest Elliott WELWYN GARDEN CITY HATFIELD UNITED W Holman lbw b Palmer 1 A Fuller run out 5 J F Owen b Palmer 5 J Cross lbw b Holman 7 E Selley c Stevens b Palmer 13 W Dickenson b Selley 0 H Gossip b Fuller 3 W Smith c Reiss b Holman 19 R Reiss c Smith b Palmer 12 F Groom b Holman 1 S Yuill c Fuller b Smith 3 S Willson b Selley 5 Andrews b Smith 2 A Eastgate not out 2 H Cockrane c and b Smith 0 W Stevens b Selley 7 N Brown b Smith 3 F Elliott b Holman 7 C Care not out 1 R Bowes b Selley 1 G Dawson c Stevens b Palmer 1 E Palmer b Holman 0 Extras 6 Extras 6 Total 50 Total 60 O M R W Palmer 18.0 9 20 5 Fuller 9.0 5 8 1 Willson 4.0 1 8 0 Smith 5.0 0 8 4 O M R W Holman 14.0 3 27 5 Selley 14.0 4 27 4 Welwyn Garden City News - 22 June 1923

85 4-17, Ted Palmer 4-36). In reply, Hatfield's 1st XI was bowled out for 66. However, the 2nd XI suffered a comprehensive defeat at Bayford, where the home side scored 58 runs (Jack Marsh 7-25). Hatfield was bowled out twice, for 16 and 35, resulting in an innings defeat. SATURDAY, 28 JULY Walter Holland took 9 wickets for only 11 runs to reduce St Albans Gasworks to 43 all out, however, the 2nd XI’s batsmen capitulated to 19 all out. THURSDAY, 02 AUGUST Playing at the Show Field, Hatfield’s Thursday XI beat Manor Park by an unspecified margin. SATURDAY, 04 AUGUST While Hatfield United's 1st XI was suffering a loss to Hoddesdon away, Hatfield's 2nd XI managed a draw against St Saviours College at the Show Field. St Saviours declared on 116 for 8, and by the close of play, Hatfield had reached 58 for 7, with Walter Holland top-scoring on 25. MONDAY, 06 AUGUST Hatfield United's second team played against the Estate at Hatfield Park. The Estate declared on a formidable score of 220 for 6, and despite the efforts of Gerry Carpenter (27) and Alec Gow (23), United's second string was bowled out for just 95 in return. SATURDAY, 01 SEPTEMBER Hatfield 53 (Ernest Elliott 15, Arthur Eastgate 18 not out), Bayford 42 (Ted Palmer 4-17, Elliott 3-10). HODDESDON V. HATFIELD Last Thursday the Hatfield Cricket Club journeyed to Hoddesdon seeking victory. but found it not. A participator stated that notwithstanding their defeat, it was a glorious game. Scores: HODDESDON HATFIELD N B Hunt b Quarrie 1 T Hickson c Edwards b Knight 2 G Hampton b Rumney 46 S Hankin lbw b Edwards 6 Shepherd c Hickson b Quarrie 2 H R Taylor b Shepherd 26 Collett b Quarrie 3 S Hart b Edwards 8 Brazier b Holland 27 J Holland c Symes b Edwards 0

86 T Knight b Holland 12 H Quarrie b Edwards 15 D Symes c Hollongworth b Quarrie 17 J Rumney run out 15 G Edwards b Rumney 0 J Walby b Collett 1 W Griffin b Rumney 2 W Holland c Knight b Shepherd 0 Leach b Rumney 8 J Hollingworth b Shepherd 0 Randall not out 0 Nightingale not out 0 Extras 9 Extras 4 Total 127 Total 77 Bowling: S Hart 0 for 39, Quarrie 4 for 34, J Holland 2 for 31, J Rumney 4 for 14. The Pilot - 14 September 1923 CLUB DINNER The cricket section of the Hatfield United Athletic Club held their annual dinner at the One Bell Hotel on Thursday, October 4, when a most enjoyable time was spent. Mr Alfred Whitby presided, and about forty members were present. The catering was in the very capable hands of Mr Walter Clarke. The harmony of the evening was provided by the following gentlemen: Messrs R Bowes (accompanist), R Whitby, B H Oliver, G Whitby, W R Watson, E Elliott, J Eastgate, J C Simpson, W Dickenson and F Richardson. The Toast List was as follows: “The King,” Mr A Whitby; “The President,” Mr W E Watson; “The Chairman,” Mr B H Oliver; “Our Guests,” Mr A O Fuller; “General Secretary and Treasurer,” Mr E J Dunham; “The Artists,” Mr W J Richardson. The season’s records, which were read during the evening, were as follows:– The best averages were as under:– Batting Bowling Played W L D Ab. 1st XI 16 6 8 1 1 2nd XI 16 8 7 1 - Thursday XI 11 4 6 0 1 Innings N.O. Runs Av. E Elliott 19 3 293 18.31 E J Hickson 17 1 284 17.75 W Groom 9 0 137 15.22 A Wren 7 0 89 12.71 A Gow 11 0 118 10.72 O. M. R. W. Aver. H H Quarrie 94.3 28 158 34 4.61 A Stebbings 38.4 7 89 18 4.94

87 According to the HUAC's Annual Report, Alfred Whitby's prize bat for the first player to score a 50 was awarded to William Groom, while Sidney Hart received the cricket ball for the first hat-trick. Additionally, Frederick Hollier presented a bat to Ernest Elliott for leading the batting averages and to Harold Quarrie for having the best bowling average. The report also mentioned that a new Harrier Section had joined the club, becoming the third element of the organisation. The catches of the season were: E Elliott 14, W Stevens 13, F Groom 10, A O Fuller (captain) 9, W R Watson 8, A S Hart 8. J C Simpson 42.2 12 91 16 5.68 W Groom 93.1 27 192 31 6.19 E Palmer 213.2 49 503 75 6.70 E Elliott 148.1 27 357 51 7.00 Welwyn Garden City News - 12 October 1923 Official Opening of Cricket Ground at the Show Field 1923. Jack Brown, Fred Hickson, Eddie Hickson, William Sibley. Gerry Carpenter, Bernard Hyde (scorer), William Smith, Bob Ray, Alec Gow, Whitney Dickinson, Marcus Walby, Ron Lay (scorer). Alf Reynolds, Jack Rumney, Stan Hankin, Ernest Hickson (umpire), Alfred Whitby, Henry West (umpire), W R Watson, J C Simpson, Tom Hickson, Bill Groom. Frank Elliott, Frank Groom, Stan Willson, Jack Marsh, Ernest Elliott, William Sayers, Alfred Otway Fuller.

88 1924 H.U.A.C. CRICKET SECTION GENERAL MEETING The cricket section of the H. U.A.C. held their annual general meeting, at the One Bell Hotel, on Tuesday, April 15. Mr H West presided, and between thirty and forty members were present. Mr R Ray, the section secretary, reported that only a very few dates were open for the coming season for both the first and second elevens, also the Thursday team, and that no doubt these would be filled in due course. The election of officers was as follows: Chairman, Mr H West; Captain, First XI, Mr A O Fuller; Vice-Captain, Mr E J Hickson; Captain, Second XI, Mr F Groom; Vice-Captain, Mr C Dunham; Captain, Thursday XI, Mr S Hankin; ViceCaptain, Mr A J Rumney; Selection Committee, Messrs E Elliott, A Powell, C Sunderland, H R Taylor, and A Eastgate; Umpires, Messes E Hickson and H.Nicholas; Scorers, Messrs B Hyde, A Scott, and C Moore; Section Hon. Secretaries, Mr R Ray, for Saturday XI’s, and Mr C Sunderland, for Thursday XI. HATFIELD UNITED ATHLETIC CLUB Cricket Section FIXTURES SEASON 1924 The President: THE MARQUIS OF SALISBURY, K.G., G.C.V.O., C.B. Hon. Gen. Sec. & Treas: W. R. Watson, Fore St., Hatfield. Hon. Sec. Cricket Section: R. E. Ray, 7 Cecil Crescent, Hatfield. Match Sec. Thursday XI: C. Sunderland, Fore St., Hatfield.

89 The opening matches of the season will be on Thursday, May I, at Potter’s Bar; Saturday, May 3, First XI v. St. Mark’s, at Woodside; Second XI v. St. Albans Second XI away. Welwyn Garden City News - 25 April 1924 FIRST ELEVEN DATE OPPONENTS GROUND May 3 St. Albans 2nd XI away “ 10 Old Johnians “ “ 17 New Barnet P.S.A. home “ 24 Hill End Mental Hospital away “ 31 Gt. Northern Institute home June 7 Digswell away “ 9 Brunswick Institute home* “ 14 Cockfosters “ “ 21 Potters Bar away July 28 Hoddesdon Town home “ 5 New Barnet P.S.A. away “ 12 Old Johnians home “ 19 Hoddesdon Town away “ 26 Hill End Mental Hospital “ Aug. 2 Welwyn home “ 4 Old Johnians “ * “ 5 Wood Green Athletic Assn “ † “ 6 Welwyn Garden City “ “ 9 Potters Bar “ Sept. 16 Leavesden Mental Hospotal away 23 Brunswick Institute home 30 Gt. Northern Institute “ 6 Cockfosters away 13 St. Albans 2nd XI home * 11.30 † 12 noon CRICKET SECTION OFFICERS. CAPTAIN 1ST XI. Mr. A. O. FULLER VICE-CAPTAIN 1ST XI. Mr. E. J. HICKSON CAPTAIN 2ND XI. Mr. F. GROOM VICE-CAPTAIN 2ND XI. Mr. C. DUNHAM CAPTAIN THURSDAY XI. Mr. S. C. HANKIN VICE-CAPTAIN THURS XI. Mr. A. J. RUMNEY COMMITTEE: Messers. A. EASTGATE, E. ELLIOTT, C. SUNDERLAND, H. R. TAYLOR A. POWELL. HON. UMPIRES: HON. SCORERS: Mr E. HICKSON, Mr. B. HIDE, Mr, H. J. NICHOLAS. Mr. A. SCOTT Selection Committee meets at The ‘One Bell’ Hotel every Monday, at 8.30 p.m. SATURDAY, MAY 17 All cricket matches arranged last week with the Hatfield teams were cancelled owing to wet conditions of the wickets. The H.U.A.C. Cricket Section reminds members that Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays are the official practice nights on the club ground at 6.30 p.m. Welwyn Garden City News - 16 May 1924 SATURDAY, MAY 3 Both the H.U.A.C. cricket fixtures at St Albans and St Mark’s were cancelled on account of the sodden state of the wickets. The same reason accounted for the cancellation of the Thursday fixture (May 1) at Potters Bar. Welwyn Garden City News - 09 May 1924

90 SATURDAY, MAY 17 HATFIELD UNITED V. NEW BARNET P.S.A. Hatfield United opened their cricket season in fine style on Saturday last in a match with New Barnet, played at Hatfield. The outstanding incidents of the match were the fine, fielding of the home side, particularly in the case of W.Smith; also the innings of E J Hickson, who, after being missed with an easy catch when only three up, played a careful and confident game, and went on to score 76. R Ray, too, played a stylish innings, and made a useful 24, also E Elliott, “hurricane batsman,” hit out, and his score of 40 included six 4s and one 6. The total scores were, Hatfield 187, New Barnet 59. THURSDAY ELEVEN DATE OPPONENTS GROUND May 8 away “ 15 home “ 22 Wood Green Police Athletic Association “ “ 29 Hertford Police Sports Association “ June 5 Old Johnians “ “ 12 “ 19 Bowes Park home “ 26 Hoddesdon “ July 3 Potters Bar “ “ 10 Hertford Police Sports Association away “ 17 Great Northern Institute home “ 24 Old Johnians away Aug. 7 Bowes Park home “ 14 “ 21 Haileybury Staff home “ 28 Hoddesdon away “ 4 Wood Green Athletic Assn “ Sept. 11 Haileybury Staff “ SECOND ELEVEN DATE OPPONENTS GROUND May 3 St. Mark’s, Woodside away “ 10 Bayford home “ 17 “ “ 24 Welwyn Garden City home “ 31 Old Johnians 2nd XI away June 7 St. Mark’s, Woodside home “ 9 Little Berkhamstead away† “ 14 Bengeo “ “ 21 Potters Bar 2nd XI home “ 28 Essendon away July 5 Rosslyn C.C. home “ 12 Hertford Town away “ 19 Old Johnians 2nd XI home “ 26 Little Berkhamstead “ Aug. 2 Welwyn Garden City away “ 4 Hatfield Estate “ ‡ “ 9 Potters Bar 2nd XI away “ 16 Essendon home “ 23 Rosslyn C.C. away “ 30 Sept. 6 Bayford home † 12 noon ‡ 2 p.m.

91 NEW BARNET P.S.A. HATFIELD UNITED F Morris c Watson b Palmer 11 E J Hickson c & b Field 76 W Lodge c Elliott b Palmer 10 R E Ray b Coates 24 F A Waldock b Elliott 5 W Smith b Dollimore 13 H Young run out 10 A Eastgate b Dollimore 1 W Coates c Smith b Elliott 6 E Elliott b Morris 40 F Bulley b Fuller 4 A O Fuller c Zilwood b Dollimore 6 R Haggen run out 0 J C Simpson b Morris 9 P Dollimore c Smith b Elliott 6 S Willson b Dollimore 4 J Dawson c Eastgate b Fuller 1 A Reynolds c Young b Lodge 0 F Zilwood b Elliott 0 W R Watson c Morris b Lodge 13 A FIeld not out 4 E Palmer not out 0 Extras 2 Extras 1 Total 59 Total 187 Bowling Analysis: Elliott 4 for 22; E Palmer 2 for 19; A O Fuller 2 for 16. Welwyn Garden City News - 23 May 1924 It is quite evident that this season’s weather clerk is not a cricket enthusiast. He surely must be an advocate for football all the year round, considering that he has been responsible for the cancellation of nine H.U.A.C. cricket matches so far this season, to say nothing of the other local clubs who have fared equally bad. One of the “local derbies,” viz., Hatfield versus Welwyn Garden City, had to be cancelled on Saturday last owing to the inclement weather. Welwyn Garden City News - 30 May 1924 THURSDAY, MAY 22 Played at Hatfield, Hatfield Thursday XI v.Wood Green Police Sports Association. WOOD GREEN POLICE HATFIELD THURSDAY Smith run out 10 I Horsey b Nobbs 1 Brown run out 34 A Gow c Girling b Barttan 2 Girling c Walby b Mardlin 20 H R Taylor b Nobbs 1 Nobbs b Blackett 14 B J Blackett lbw b Barttan 4 RIchardson c Hart b Blackett 13 S C Harkin lbw b Nobbs 0 Barttan b Mardlin 0 J C Walby b Nobbs 8 Merrall b Stebbing 3 P Mardell b Brown 8 Worley b Mardlin 0 S Cull b Girling 3 Woodward c Hollingsworth b Mardlin 0 M Hart b Girling 3 Guard b Cull 5 A Stebbings c & b Girling 8 Head c Gow b Cull 0 J Hollingsworth b Brown 2 Redden not out 2 A Fuller not out 0 Extras 4 Extras 0 Total 105 Total 32 Bowling Analysis: Stebbing 1 for 14, Blackett 2 for 40, Mardlin 4 for 44, Cull 2 for 3.

92 Welwyn Garden City News - 30 May 1924 Hatfield 2nd XI match v. Old Johnians, for Saturday, May 31, was cancelled owing to the Elizabethan Fete at Hatfield falling on that day, so many H.U.A.C. members being engaged at the Fete. HERTS POLICE HATFIELD THURSDAY Hyatt c Hart b Blacket 13 G Carpenter c Gristwod b Paton 4 Paton b Blackett 2 H R Taylor b Gristwood 8 Gristwood b Rumney 72 F Weedon b Gristwood 7 Thompson b Rumney 19 S Hankin lbw b Gristwood 2 Brain b Rumney 0 M J Walby b Paton 13 Lee b Blackett 20 M Hart c Prior b Gristwood 0 Prior b Blackett 4 J C Walby b Paton 0 Cumberland c Rumney b Blackett 0 J Rumney c Gristwod b Paton 0 Potter b Rumney 11 J Hollingsworth b Gristwood 0 Manton c M Walby b B;lackett 2 E J Hickson not out 8 Palmer not out 0 R E Ray b Gristwood 12 Extras 15 Extras 6 Total 158 Total 60 Bowling Analysis: Blackett 6 for 43; Rumney 4 for 66; Weedon 0 for 6; Hart 0 for 9; Carpenter 0 for 12. Welwyn Garden City News - 06 June 1924 SATURDAY, JUNE 7 Played at Digswell. Hatfield 1st XI v. Digswell. HATFIELD DIGSWELL E J Hickson b Ward 21 H Lloyd c E Elliott b Palmer 4 R Ray b Ward 8 M Lorden b Elliott 4 G Carpenter b Ward 1 P Acland c & b Palmer 0 B J Blackett c & b Lorden 60 J Ramsey b Elliott 1 E Elliott b Ramsey 23 H Crockfield b Elliott 2 A O Fuller hit wicket b Lorden 10 F Kendall lbw b Palmer 16 D Richardson b Lorden 2 P McMullen st Hickson b Palmer 3 E Palmer c & b Lorden 0 J Orde b Blackett 4 W R Watson b Crockford 1 F Carrick c Blackett b Palmer 19 A Reynolds b Lorden 2 S Squires run out 6 A Eastgate not out 1 H Ephgrave not out 0 Extras 9 Extras 4 Total 138 Total 63 Bowling Analysis: E Elliott 3 for 22; E Palmer 5 for 18; B Blackett 1 for 10; A O Fuller 0 for 7; A Reynolds 0 for 2. THURSDAY, MAY 29 Played at Hatfield, Hatfield Thursday XI v. “B” Division Herts Police.

93 Played at Hatfield. Hatfield United 2nd XI v. St Mark’s, Woodside. ST MARK’S HATFIELD S Titmus b F Smith 16 W Holland c Francis b Jarvis 4 H Pallett c S Willson b S Hart 0 F Elliott b Oakes 1 E Oakes b F Smith 25 E Groom c Aldridge b Oakes 18 B Aldridge c Holland b S Hart 5 R Welland b Oakes 0 E Bamford c Welland b F Smith 5 S Willson b Oakes 11 H Pallett b Holland 3 E B Dear run out 0 W Jarvis b Holland 0 C Dunham b Francis 0 T Francis b S Willson 43 F C Smith b Francis 0 H Spencer b Holland 4 S Hart b Francis 1 H Plack not out 10 F Groom not out 2 F Cook run out 1 A Stebbings b Francis 0 Extras 11 Extras 5 Total 123 Total 42 Bowling Analysis: S Hart 2 for 24; A Stebbings 0 for 13; F C Smith 3 for 25; W Holland 3 for 33; E B Dear 0 for 15; S Willson 1 for 1. Second innings, 26 for 4. Welwyn Garden City News - 13 June 1924 WHIT-MONDAY, JUNE 9 Played at Hatfield. Hatfield United 1st XI v. Brunswick Institute. BRUNSWICK INSTITUTE HATFIELD Carter b E Elliott 0 E J Hickson lbw b Carter 9 Hobbs c Gow b E Elliott 13 R Ray st Lavington b Carter 1 Sandys c Rumney b E Palmer 9 W Groom lbw b Carter 0 Hootton c Elliott b Pamner 12 G Carpenter b Thame 7 F Thame b Palmer 1 E Elliott c Wilcox b Devonport 15 Marchant b W Groom 6 A O Fuller b Carter 1 H Thame b E Elliott 6 A Gow b Devonport 4 Lavington b W Groom 1 W Smith not out 17 Devonport not out 22 M J Walby b Devonport 1 Gayelin b E Elliott 1 J Rumney b Marchant 8 Wilcox c Hickson b Fuller 5 E Palmer b Sandys 7 Extras 4 Extras 4 Total 80 Total 74 Bowling Analysis: E Elliott 4 for 20; E Palmer 3 for 26; W Groom 2 for 27; A O Fuller 1 for 3. Second Innings: Brunswick Institute all out 64. Bowling Analysis: E Elliott 3 for 23; E Palmer 4 for 27; W Groom 0 for 2; A O Fuller 0 for 4; E Hickson 3 for 4. Hatfield United 41 for 4. Played at Little Berkhampstead. Hatfield United 2nd XI v. Little Berkhampstead.

94 LITTLE BERKHAMPSTEAD HATFIELD R Ferriman b S Hart 0 F Groom b Pallett 1 C Glanfield c F Groom b S Hart 12 A Eastgate c Spencer b Pallett 5 E Pallett b S Hart 8 D Richardson lbw b Lawman 0 A Lawman b S Hart 0 T Hickson b Pallett 4 J Spencer b S Hart 5 W Dickenson st Ferriman b Pallett 4 H Haymer c Dickenson b STebbings 16 S Willson c Ferriman b Pallett 0 S Barnett b Stebbings 6 F Elliott c Storey b Glanfield 4 E Roberts c Richardson b S Hart 1 E B Dear c Storey b Glanfield 0 S Spencer c F Groom b S Hart 5 F C Smith c Pallett b Glanfield 0 W Storey run out 3 S Hart not out 1 F Mudge not out 0 A Stebbings c Pallett b Glanfield 0 Extras 1 Extras 1 Total 57 Total 20 Bowling Analysis: S Hart 7 for 21; S Willson 0 for 6; F SMith 0 for 20; Stebbings 2 for 9. Second Innings: Little Berkhampstead all out 37. Bowling Analysis: S Hart 5 for 9; S Willson 4 for 26. Hatfield United all out 33. Hatfield United Thursday’s fixture on June 5 was cancelled on account of the rain. Welwyn Garden City News - 13 June 1924 THURSDAY, JUNE 19 At Hatfield. Hatfield Thursday v. Bowes Park. HATFIELD BOWES PARK A Gow c Nye b Skitt 4 J Sinekar c Hart b Walby 8 T Hickson c Johnson b Skitt 27 B Martin c Wren b Sayers 0 H R Taylor b Abbott 8 R Pilcher run out 2 M J Walby b Abbott 1 J Norris b Sayers 0 S C Hankin b Payne 8 F Nye c and b Walby 1 A Wren c Cole b Sexton 5 A Abbott c Wren b Sayers 11 L Hickman b Payne 3 P Johnson b Rumney 2 J Rumney b Payne 2 G Skitt c Walby b Sayers 14 M Hart lbw b Payne 3 R Lawrence lbw b Sayers 4 J C Walby not out 5 G Cole not out 10 W Sayers b Skitt 6 F Sexton c Hickman b Rumney 4 A Dear b Skitt 0 R Payne b Rumney 8 Extras 5 Extras 4 Total 77 Total 68 Bowling Analysis: W Sayers 4 for 33; M J Walby 2 for 8; J Rumney 4 for 23. Welwyn Garden City News - 27 June 1924

95 SATURDAY, JUNE 21 At Potters Bar. Hatfield 1st XI v. Potters Bar POTTERS BAR HATFIELD F Jay run out 3 E J Hickson b Walby 4 R Burgoyne b Elliott 4 R E Ray b Harvey 0 L Batten b Elliott 1 B J Blackett b Walby 10 V Walby c Watson b Palmer 0 E Elliott c Batten b Harvey 16 N Reed b Palmer 8 M Norbury b Harvey 3 Major Elgy b Palmer 6 A O Fuller c Reed b Harvey 1 K Rusted b Palmer 0 A Reynolds lbw b Harvey 2 J Timms c Helsden b Palmer 1 W R Watson b Walby 5 F Harvey c and b Elliott 3 E Palmer c Elgy b Walby 0 J Cave b Palmer 1 F Groom b Walby 0 H Jay not out 0 J Hilsden not out 0 Extras 3 Extras 3 Total 30 Total 44 Bowling Analysis: E Elliott 3 for 16; E Palmer 6 for 11. Potters Bar (2nd innings): all out 16. Bowling analysis: E J Hickson 4 for 7; A O Fuller 1 for 2; J Hilsden 3 for 1. POTTERS BAR HATFIELD F Mitchell b Willson 9 E Groom b Pond 2 H Reed b Sayers 3 D Richardson c Pond b Warby 2 H Rusted b Sayers 0 W Dickenson b Pond 0 G Pond b Sayers 5 A Eastgate c Warby b Burnage 10 J Beck c Elliott b Willson 0 S Willson c Rusted b Warby 0 J Warby b Sayers 1 W Sayers b Pond 21 H Burnage b Willson 0 F Elliott b Burnage 0 L Burgoyne c and b Willson 0 F C Smith b Burnage 3 B Nicholls b Willson 5 J Welland b Mitchell 5 H White not out 0 R Bowes c Pond b Burnage 1 F Southwood b Willson 0 C Dunham not out 6 Extras 2 Extras 4 Total 25 Total 54 Bowling Analysis: S Willson 6 for 18; W Sayers 4 for 5. Welwyn Garden City News - 27 June 1924 THURSDAY, JUNE 26 Played at Hatfield. Hatfield Thursdays v. Hoddesdon Town. HATFIELD HODDESDON A Gow b Edwards 8 F Sheppard b Blackett 59 T Hickson b Knight 4 G Collett b Blackett 36 B J Blackett c Randal b Knight 4 R Tulley b Blackett 0

96 J C Walby lbw b Knight 2 S Jones c M Walby b Blackett 2 M Hart b Edwards 1 W Grippen b Blackett 5 M J Walby b Knight 0 T Knight c Gow b Blackett 4 H R Taylor b Knight 2 G Branch c Blackett b Rumney 2 G Carpenter b Edwards 0 P Thrussell b Blackett 9 S Hankin b Knight 1 G Edwards not oit 7 W Sayers c Kinight b Edwards 10 A Gippord b Blackett 9 J Rumney not out 0 G Randall retired 15 Extras 2 Extras 25 Total 34 Total 193 SATURDAY, JUNE 28 Played at Hatfield. Hatfield 1st XI v. Hoddesdon Town HODDESDON HATFIELD F Brazier c Reynolds b Palmer 3 E J Hickson b G Edwatrds 7 R Hunt c Witwell b Palmer 0 R E Ray run out 2 M Thear b Palmer 4 B J Blackett c Davis b Knight 2 C H Davis b Elliott 22 E Elliott b Symes 4 E Housdon c Briscow b Elliott 1 D G Witwell b Symes 3 T Knight b Witwell 2 E J Bristow c Davis b Symes 15 C Davis jnr b E Hickson 11 H J Norbury b Symes 0 R Haynes b Elliott 15 A O Fuller b Hurne 0 G Symes b Palmer 28 A Reynolds not out 7 E Hurne c Reynolds b Palmer 2 W R Watson b Symes 0 G Edwards not out 4 E Palmer b Symes 2 Extras 17 Extras 4 Total 109 Total 46 Bowling Analysis: E Elliott 3 for 31; E Palmer 5 for 26; D Witwell 2 for 11; E Hickson 1 for 9 Welwyn Garden City News - 04 July 1924 THURSDAY, JULY 3 Played at Hatfield. Hatfield Thursday v. Potters Bar POTTERS BAR HATFIELD Cookham b Hart 40 T Hickson c Cotton b Tooth 0 Tooth c Sayers b Mardell 5 E J Hickson b Tooth 43 Downs c and b Mardell 5 A Gow b Tooth 0 Brock b Elliott 45 J Rumney b Tooth 2 Cotton b Sayers 10 P Mardell b Tooth 0 Partner c and b Sayers 3 S Hart b Tooth 10 Parslow b Elliott 3 E Elliott b Tooth 35 Simpson st Gow b E Hickson 1 L Hickson c Downs b Brock 2 Batchelor not out 17 H R Taylor b Brock 5 Eldred b Elliott 0 W Sayers b Tooth 2 Cotton jnr b E Hickson 3 E Groom not out 4 Extras 9 Extras 7 Total 141 Total 110

97 Bowling: Mardell 2 for 20, Sayers 3 for 37, Rumney 0 for 28, Hart 0 for 18, E J Hickson 2 for 13, E Elliott 3 for 15. SATURDAY, JULY 5 Played at New Barnet. Hatfield United 1st XI v. Barnet P.C.A. BARNET P.C.A. HATFIELD W Lodge c Fuller b Elliott 0 A Reynolds b Dollimore 0 R Hagger c Hickson b Ellkiott 7 S Hart b Dollimore 1 P Dollimore b Reynolds 70 D Richardson b Dollimore 0 F Morris b Reynolds 17 E Elliott b Morris 0 F Waldock not out 15 R E Ray b Morris 4 J Dawson not out 11 E J Hickson c and b Morris 8 D Lines b Reynolds 0 J Simpson not out 19 W Coates A O Fuller not out 5 F Zillwood W Watson E Souter A Eastgate A Field J Hilsden Extras 16 Extras 4 Total for 5 wickets 136 Total for 6 wickets 41 Bowling Analysis: E Elliott 2 for 42, A O Fuller 0 for 13, J Simpson 0 for 30, A Reynolds 3 for 20, W Watson 0 for 16. Welwyn Garden City News - 11 July 1924 HATFIELD PLAYER’S CENTURY HATFIELD THURSDAY V. ‘B’ DIVISION HERTS CONSTABULARY On Thursday, July 10, in the above match, the first century to be scored on the home ground of the H.U.A.C. since transferring from the Park, two seasons ago, was made by Mr A Gow. Batting for an hour and three-quarters, he commenced very slowly, scoring only 20 in the first half hour, after which he opened out, and no less than 18 fours were included in his innings, which concluded by his being caught on the boundary with the second ball of the last over of the innings. Hatfield declared at 207, with eight wickets down. The score-board was as under:– HATFIELD THURSDAY B’ DIVISION HERTS CONSTABULARY E J Hickson b Thompson 47 Lee run out 1 A Gow c Gristwood b Thompson 104 Thompson c Hart b Sayers 6 S C Hankin b Gristwood 0 Gristwood c & b Simpson 0 J Rumney c Roberts b Thompson 10 Milton b Wren 25 M J Walby b Gristwood 5 Burgess b Rumney 6 H Taylor b Gristwood 0 Saich b Wren 2 A Wren b Milton 1 Potton b Rumney 1 W Sayers not out 0 Cumberland b Simpson 6 J C Simoson c Gristwood b Lee 30 Green b Rumney 1