The Twelfth Man 2013

22 with a personal criticism, I was disappointed not to find an Index at the back, but on reflection in a book of this nature it would have been a truly mammoth task, so forgive me for grumbling. The author has beautifully covered the story in 52 chapters; so for example, “the move to Durkar” is covered in a balanced and unprejudiced way in Chapter 41. I would like to add my personal recommendation to that of Colin. I have just loved ‘dipping’ into the book, but after returning his treasure, will definitely buy myself a copy and read it properly, the next time I go to Headingley and then look out for David to add his signature. 100 Not Out The Centenary History of the Huddersfield Central Cricket League by Dr Peter Davies The latest book written by Wombwell’s Author of the Year for 2012 is a large (A4) official history of a good local League, covering teams from around West and South Yorkshire. Large and heavy and with many reproductions from newspapers, its 336 pages have been laboriously photocopied and bound in wire/ring style. When presented to a meeting I attended, some present expressed surprise, although cost is an obvious factor for the book, at £10. Available from officials of the League, or I suppose from Peter, in the same way as the more than 25 smaller books this dedicated local author has produced. 80 Not Out My Favourite Cricket Memories Published by Hodder & Stoughton – £20 Our President, ‘Dickie’ is recognised as, not only the most famous and best loved umpire in the world, but also as the writer of a number of very good books; his previous one being an all time bestseller. His latest, written to celebrate his 80th Birthday will only add to his well-earned reputation. Of course there are some stories included, which members of my generation will feel they have read before, and no harm in that. Anyone coming onto these for the first time will be enraptured, (I freely confess, as a life long cricket lover both out on the field and curled up with a book) to being a happy, old man. 80 Not Out brings us up-to-date about Dickie’s life since retiring, 15 years ago, from the game he loves so much. Life has brought him more honours, a nationally famous statue in his hometown and meetings with his friend, Prince Charles. He writes quite openly about problems age has brought, health wise, but as in everything else, he is honest and open. He remains a genuinely friendly man without an enemy in the world. Perhaps some will value the chapters in which he writes about the way in which the game is changing and heads for the future, but I found his analysis of the strengths and ability of a group of young players most interesting. He can speak with authority on what is required. A good bet to be another bestseller! Headingley Ghosts A Collection of Yorkshire Cricket Tragedies by Mick Pope Published by Scratching Shed Publishing – £14.99 In the words of William Shakespeare, this year The Society “Is twice blessed”, like the rain, we are “blesseth him that gives and him that takes”. A literary way of rejoicing in having two wonderful books written by members of the Society: members we all know and meet regularly. These books will deservedly take an honoured place on our shelves. Opening this book I was fascinated from the first page, the Preface, and unable ‘to put it