BINGLEY Congs, whose first team won the Wynn Cup last season and finished third in the Mewies Solicitors Craven League First Division and whose second team were promoted from Division Four, have also formed a third team.

They will play in Division 4B and will share a home ground with Oakworth Thirds at Bronte Fields.

Congs are seeking new players for 2016 of all abilities and ages, as well as a second-team scorer and a third-team umpire. Payment for both will be given, with training also an option.

Any interested players, scorers or umpires should contact club secretary Graeme Love on 07780-953450 or Bill Marshall at bill.marshall@telegraphandargus.co.uk.

Love, who will also captain the third team, said: “I think it’s great that we have been given this opportunity. It shows that Bingley Congs are strengthening as a cricket club and going in the right direction when we are in a position where we are able to field three teams of 11 every Saturday.

"We have a great batch of junior lads coming through and, unfortunately due to the sheer size of our squad, their chances were limited during the 2015 season.

"We are going to have a good blend of youth and experience in the third team. I am looking forward to seeing the younger lads progress, and hopefully take the step up to the second team.

"I played for Oakworth's third team a while back, so I know what an asset having a third team can be. It’s a chance to blood the youngsters and introduce them into senior cricket, while also aiding some of the elder statesmen in prolonging their careers."