THE Readers Scarborough Beckett League have reacted quickly following the shock resignation of premier division side Kirkbymoorside and announced a new formation of divisions for the 2015 season.

The league made the decision not to relegate last year’s ninth-placed teams from the premier division and divisions ‘A’ and ‘B’ - namely Filey, Sherburn and Scarborough 3rds respectively - and also invited Muston to join the league.

Muston finished third in the Derwent Valley League last year and will join Flamborough and Great Habton, who had accepted previous invitations, in going up to Scarborough league division three.

A knock-on effect is that Nawton Grange 2nds will be promoted to division ‘A’ of the DVL to replace Muston.

This means the Beckett League will still have 40 teams across four divisions, while the Derwent Valley League will have two divisions of 10.

Scarborough Beckett League secretary Simon Dobson said: “The league had four viable options (after Kirkbymoorside’s resignation) but felt this scenario was in the best interests of local cricket.

“I’m pleased this decision has been reached and hopefully both leagues can look forward to the summer with renewed enthusiasm.”

The original fixture programmes had been produced but a new matrix accommodating the new set-up has been organised by committee member John Crossland and will be handed out to clubs at the league’s respective annual general metings.

Dobson added: “The help and assistance of Bernard Goulding and his Derwent Valley League committee, plus the willingness of the clubs involved, has allowed us to be decisive, which proves the strength and togetherness within the cricket community in our area.”

The Scarborough Beckett League’s annual general meeting is tonight, starting at 7.30pm at the Downe Arms, Wykeham. The DVL’s AGM will be on Tuesday, January 27 at 7.30pm at Ayton Sports Association.

Scarborough Beckett League Premier division: Cayton, Ebberston, Filey, Flixton 2nds, Forge Valley, Heslerton, Nawton Grange, Scalby, Staithes, Staxton.

Div ‘A’: Brompton, Cayton 2nds, Cloughton, Grindale, Mulgrave, Seamer, Settrington, Sherburn, Wold Newton, Wykeham.

Div ‘B’: Bridlington 2nds, Forge Valley 2nds, Fylingdales, Ganton, Ravenscar, Scalby 2nds, Scarborough 3rds, Sewerby 2nds, Staxton 2nds, Thornton Dale.

Div ‘C’: Cloughton 2nds, Ebberston 2nds, Flamborough, Fylingdales 2nds, Great Habton, Heslerton 2nds, Muston, Ryedale, Seamer 2nds, Wykeham 2nds.