CLACTON Cricket Club put their turbulent winter behind them to make a winning start to the new season.

The club’s first team had to pull out of the Gibbs Denley East Anglian Premier League, for financial reasons, and long-serving manager Gary Kirk described the close-season as the “most difficult” in the Seasiders’ history.

However, the sun shone on the first day of the new season – and his side duly ran out 72-run winners at home to St Margaret’s.

“Given all the issues that had surrounded the club, it was a relief to get the season off and running,” said a delighted Kirk.

For a full report, see this week's Gazette.