CULLINGWORTH'S second team have folded their second team in the Spenser Wilson Halifax League due to a lack of players.

A knock-on effect of that is that their first team, who had gained back-to-back promotions and were due to play in the Premier Division this season, have been relegated to Division Two, the lowest tier.

League secretary Tim Helliwell said in a statement today: "Very disappointing news but due to reduced playing numbers - of which a good number are last year’s first XI players - for the forthcoming cricket season, Cullingworth CC have had no alternative but to fold their second XI.

"As a result, in accordance with league rules, Cullingworth's first and only XI are demoted to Division Two of the HCL.

"This follows last year's very successful year for Cullingworth’s first XI, who won the Division One championship and gained promotion to the Premier League.

"Queensbury CC, whose first XI were relegated last season, were offered the opportunity to remain in the PL but declined.

"Bridgeholme CC first XI, who finished third in Division One last year, have been offered the opportunity to play in the PL and they have accepted.

"Clayton CC first XI, who finished third in Division Two, have been offered the opportunity to play in Division One and have accepted.

"As a result of the foregoing, all HCL fixtures for 2018 will need to be re arranged.

"A more detailed press release will follow (probably tonight)."