The 1956 cricket season was probably one of the wettest on record, with the result that although the team gained only 128 points in the championship, as against 132 points in 1955, they finished 8th as against 11th. But for the weather the team would almost certainly have finished still higher in the championship.

Probably the best performance was their first win of the season against Surrey in the Whitsuntide match.

The side as a whole played good cricket, the bowling generally being adequate, but the batting was not nearly consistent enough, particularly considering the resources that were available. The fielding showed improvement with the exception of close to the wicket catches.

Mr. R.T. Simpson again captained the side well and had a good season, scoring 1,454 runs, slightly more than last season.

Stocks created a Club record in scoring 171 against the Australians.

Of the other batsmen, only he and Giles and to a lesser degree Poole, made runs with any regularity although Harvey batted well in the few games that he played, and Arthur Jepson often made runs quickly when they were needed in his own inimitable style.

Dooland was again the most successful bowler, taking 146 wickets, and it will interest members to know that during his four seasons with us he has taken no fewer than 664 wickets, a really wonderful record.

Jepson again bowled with great spirit and took 83 wickets, a fine effort. Smales did not have such a successful season as last year but had the satisfaction of taking all 10 wickets for 66 against Gloucestershire, a feat only once before achieved for the County. Walker in his first season with us, also took over 50 wickets.

Mr. G. Goonesena suffered from illness and was unable to play in many matches. He is a very fine all rounder and we wish him all success this when he is to captain Cambridge University.

Rowe again kept wicket efficiently and when injured was relieved by Cyril Poole.

The Second Eleven had a very successful season, finishing 3rd in the Minor Counties Competition with 5 wins and no losses out of 16 games. Your Committee feel that this shows that the reserve strength of the County is strong and augurs well for the future.

Jim Parks again performed his duties of coach efficiently.

Your Committee record with regret the death of Mr. George Green for many years a valued member of the Committee and recently a Vice-President, and Col. T.L.C. Curtis, a member of the Committee until 1939.

It is also deeply regretted that James Iremonger who as a player and coach, served the Club with outstanding ability until 1938, died in March.

Members will have seen the many improvements made to the ground during the year. Your Committee once again desires to express their thanks to the Notts. County Cricket Supporters’ Association without whose aid these could not have been carried out.

The Income and Expenditure account reveals a position that has caused much concern and strenuous efforts have been made to keep normal out-goings within reasonable limits.

Action must be taken to enable income to increase in relation to rising expenditure otherwise the financial situation will become very serious at an early date.

Finally, your Committee would like to express their appreciation of the work of the Secretary and his staff, both indoor and outdoor, who have all worked with great efficiency throughout the year.

Members are reminded that in accordance with Rule 16j the Committee has Power to refuse admission to the ground of any Member whose subscription has not been paid by the first of June.

This rule will be strictly enforced and NO admittance will be granted or subscription accepted at the Test Match.

On behalf of the Committee,
R.J. de Barber, Chairman.