DAVID Lloyd’s view that the Lancashire League must scrap professionals to save clubs from going to the wall financially has not been universally accepted in the competition.

Not all clubs have concured, as some see the inclusion of professionals as a way of maintaining the league’s kudos and sustaining supporter interest, while also avoiding the scenario of paid ‘amateurs’ which operates elsewhere and lends itself to a policy of buying success.

“I have lot of respect for David Lloyd but I don’t agree with that view,” said Mike Everett, chairman of cricket at Ramsbottom.

“Without professionals, I think the league would lose a lot of credibility and I don’t want to go down that road.

“It is getting harder to get professionals and I appreciate it’s a costly item.

“But I think clubs have to make themselves more attractive to raise revenue and I think clubs could get in serious financial jeopardy without them.”

David Wren, Lowerhouse chairman, said: “I disagree 100 per cent with this idea. If we took professionals out of our game, we’d just become another cricket league.

“The Lancashire League has a worldwide reputation among fans and players, and it is still an excellent product if promoted properly.

“When Lowerhouse played in the cup final a few years back, there were more than 3000 fans at the ground.

“And what other sport is there where you get youngsters playing alongside internationals?

“Financially, it is a drain, but it’s up to clubs to get their house in order and manage their finances properly.”

Church captain Phil Gilrane agreed that paid-men are necessary to maintain the ‘buzz’ within the game.

“Earlier this season, our 15-year-old, Levi Wolfenden, took his first ever League wicket and it was Craig McMillan,” said Gilrane.

“He’s a major international player and for Levi, it was a great moment for him – something to cherish and build on.

"He would not have got that opportunity if we scrapped professionals.”

Former Burnley skipper Qasim Ali said: “I’m a bit on the fence. If clubs have got the money, then I’m all for them spending the money to bring in a top-class pro.

“But there’s also a case for bringing in medium quality pros and investing more on youth players and getting them up to scratch.”