Clitheroe Investigation – Statement

This release is for the information of our members and whilst I accept that it will be read by others, it is solely an information document. I would ask to that the trial by social media ceases as not much of it is true or accurate and the speculation is damaging and unhelpful for both ourselves and Clitheroe Cricket Club. 
Circumstances have lead to a senior member of the club executive being made aware that 3 Clitheroe players are allegedly receiving remuneration for playing cricket for Clitheroe Cricket Club. This is against the rules of the Lancashire League. 

Firstly members ought to know that Lowerhouse are by no means comfortable with having to make this complaint as we recognise the potential damage that this can cause. Hitherto we had a very good relationship with Clitheroe CC, went across pre season at their invitation and shared ideas with them and were very pleased to see them in the League. We especially have a good junior relationship with them over many years. Having to make a complaint about a club where we have friends on and off the field is distressing for all concerned.

Secondly, the club had two choices under the Lancashire League rules. Either, do nothing or pay £50 to make a complaint. Feeling unable to ignore what we were aware of, and therefore making the complain , we find that we have become the investigators in both providing information to the league and being recipients of further information from other sources. Dutifully we will pass this information on to the Executive unless specified otherwise by the informant. 

There have been many comments in the public domain relating to timing and also suggestions of sour grapes. We must stress that we can only report the incident at the time it comes to light and that the initial notification to the Lancashire League was made the day after the incident occurred. Similarly, to us it would not matter if Clitheroe were top of the league or bottom, we felt duty bound to make the formal complaint to uphold the integrity of the league. 

Finally Lowerhouse CC are not judge and jury. We are simply acting in what we believe to be the best interests of the Lancashire League.  

Stan Heaton