SEATON knew just who to turn to when they needed an acting chairman to oversee operations – former Somerset chief executive Peter Anderson.

Although Anderson was the man at the top of Somerset cricket for 16 years from 1989 onwards, he always maintained a strong connection with club side Seaton.

Anderson, who played for Devon between 65-73, only stood down from his honourary role as club groundsman last year.

The 75 year old had been hoping for a quieter life until current chairman Chris Gamwell had to take a backward step due to pressures of work.

As Anderson is going to double-up as second team manager in 2018, as well as carry on as fixture secretary and coach to the under-13 and under-14 colts, thoughts of the quiet life have been put on hold.

“Having stepped down from being groundsman after 30 years with the promise of ‘assisting’ my successor I thought I could wander down the ground, buy a pint and join the critics – fat chance,” said Anderson.

The 1st XI under Ben Morgan had a decent first season back in the B Division last summer after a decade-long absence and will continue much as it was.

Anderson said sorting the 2nd XI out is a priority as today’s second teamers are the senior players of tomorrow.

We are trying to put a very young side into the field at 2nd Xl level, based on a very good side we had two years ago at under-15 level, most of whom faded away from playing regularly,” aid Anderson.

“We had to cancel some league fixtures last season forfeiting points and finished bottom.

“What we are trying to do is encourage some of our more senior players, perhaps a little tired of the whole season availability slog, to make themselves available on an ad-hoc basis to fill up places when short.

“Ben Goodier, the aforesaid under-15 captain, will be in charge with myself as team manager and Steve Pritchard as the senior player.

“We think we should now have enough players to complete the Devon League fixture list, but we do need to seek out and recruit people off the field to run the club as old cricketers like me cannot go on forever.”

Indoor nets start at Colyton Grammar School on Sunday, February 18 at 5pm for juniors and 6pm for adults.

New players always welcome. Call Morgan (0778743658)3 for details.