The curtain came down on the 2024/2025 season this week, as the Individual Merit Final and Presentation Evening took place at a very pleasant and sunny Littlemoor.

An excellent attendance of players and supporters firstly watched the Individual Merit Final between St Andrews B's John Bedford and Pudsey Congs David Hirst. John began quite brightly scoring an early break of 13 to extend the 10 point advantage he receives on their handicaps. He looked very good early on with some confident in-off play. Then, when there wasn't any obvious scoring to be had, he cleverly potted his opponents ball a few times and played safely into baulk. At one stage he was 30+ in front and looked like he could run away with it. 

Dave, though, is very experienced, and with no panicking he gradually grew into the game, making double figure breaks (including a 22) which got him nicely back into contention. He managed to draw level at around the 145 mark and now, as his scoring became more consistent than John's, he took the lead. With John anxiously looking at the scoreboard, Dave made another teens break which got him to within 7 of the 200 required. Very soon after, the 7 points were scored by Dave at one visit, to reward him with the Individual Merit for the 5th time! Congratulations to Dave and commiserations to John, who had been playing very well on the run-up to the final, but just stumbled slightly at the final hurdle.

Following the billiards, the pie and peas were very popular with everyone...thanks again to Alan Mazurke who, not only worked hard behind the bar, but also served up the food. The mint sauce and onions in vinegar may have caused a few frowns, particularly from one person from the wrong side of the Pennines, but they were very tasty additions for me and many others...

The prize presentations were then made by our good friend, Stephen Kershaw, who has been the League Secretary and main mover and shaker in the Bradford League for over 50 years (absolutely amazing!). After the season Littlemoor have had, it would have been far too embarrassing for me to make the prize presentations; so thanks very much to Stephen for stepping up to the plate.

The date for the AGM was set at the last league meeting, but due to the Treasurer not being available on the 3rd of July, I have moved it provisionally to the Thursday the 24th July 2025. I will confirm that on here, on the Facebook group and on the WhatsApp group nearer the time.

Finally, thanks to all for making this season another successful one.

David Howarth

League Secretary