Vicar David Keen of Whinfield Church, Darlington, helped Haughton 1st XI to a Victory against Raby Castle 1st XI on the opening day of the Darlington and District League season.

He had bowling figures of four wickets for 27 runs, well supported by Colin (Warhorse) Wilkinson with 3 wickets for 20 runs and David Edwards with 2 wickets for 33 runs, and top scoring with 23 not out.

Haughton travel to Division A favourites Middleton St George tomorrow and expect a difficult game.

Haughton 2nd XI, travelled to Raby Castle to play Raby 2nds and, batting first, totalled 77 all out, Ian (Budgie) Burgess top scoring with 26. Raby 2nds bowling attack of Steven Caygill, Paul Winspear, Simon Lee and Veteran Peter Jackson who had figures of three wkts for four runs made batting difficult for a Young Haughton II side.

Raby Castle II's, knocked the runs off for the loss of just three wickets, with Raby's David Lee being their top batsman.

Although Haughton tasted defeat, credit must go to their bowling attack, as all bowlers used were all under 18, Jamie Irving, Neil Wilkinson, Michael Lunn, Gary McGuire and Matty Brown (who took his first wicket for Haughton in D&DCL). Non of the bowlers disgraced themselves and with age on their side the future for Haughton looks bright.

Haughton 2nds, look forward to tomorrow Saturday when they hope they can claim their first win of the season at home to Lands II.

Today sees Haughton Under-15s start their season at home to Spennithorne, Tuesday, May 4 is the day Haughton Under-18s start their campaign at home to Esh Winning and Sunday, May 9 sees Haughton Under-13s start their season away to Aldbrough St John.