NOBODY in the Bolton Association would have predicted that Elton would have won the title and especially with such style.

However, captain Graham Bushell knew he had the gourmet blend of wily experience and youthful exuberance.

They had a superb start, posting their intentions by comfortably beating champions and local rivals Walshaw by six wickets, typically Dexter Fitton saw them home with overs in the bank.

More convincing victories over Spring View, Atherton and Clifton followed soon after and with confidence growing, away from the league programme, they also did well in the Lancashire Knockout.

The Leigh Lane outfit saw off Lancs County League side Roe Green in an easy four wicket victory, then defeated crack Ribblesdale League outfit Read, containing former test star Peter Sleep and Essex man Danny Law.

But then Elton ran into a cricketing wall, beaten by eventual winners Bootle, an outfit containing many former county stars and a vast army of supporters, including Andrew Flintoff.

This proved to be a blessing in disguise as it left the Leigh Laners with only the League to focus on, and after a defeat at the hands of Standish Elton had to pick themselves up immediately.

Thankfully in the end, harsh words were exchanged and Elton got back on track.

A more watchful style had to be adopted but this didnt stop Elton roaring to another large succession of wins, but could not quite shake off Darcy Lever from their tail coats.

When the big showdown came, Elton were not found wanting. On a minefield of a wicket, Elton posted 123 all out, which did not sound a lot, but when Darcy Lever found themselves skittled for 56, the score proved to be more than enough.

After more convincing successes against Standish and Little Hulton, Elton had one hand on the trophy. On the penultimate weekend Elton tied the League up, but not after a disaster defeat against basement club Lostock.

Luckily for the Leigh Lane outfit, rivals Darcy Lever also lost.

After a comfortable win against strugglers Golborne, the League trophy came to Leigh Lane 10 years after they joined the Association.

Overall it has showed consistent development, a family atmosphere within the club and a burning desire to succeed.

The players and everybody involved with Elton CC can look back on the 2004 season with immense pride and satisfaction and look forward to the 2005 season with an eye on the double!