The Colliers triumphed over Bedlington by a four wickets margin in the penultimate over to clinch the tournament – which was later described as a "fantastic success" by chief organiser Ian Wardle, Northumberland Cricket Development manager for the EC
B who said afterwards: "We are looking to continue the competition on an annual basis.
"It was a fantastic success bringing everybody together and allowing the four teams – Ashington, Bedlington, Bomarsund and Northern Social – the chance to play each other."
He continued: "The weather was ideal and the event attracted a couple of hundred spectators who have enjoyed what was a successful day.
"It is also a really good way for Ashington Cricket Club to raise money with the proceeds going to the junior committee and we are going to use this as a blueprint for other clubs if they want to organise a similar tournament. Alnmouth have already indicated that they plan to run the event in their district."
Ashington Cricket Club chairman Bruce Storey said: "The event has been a great success for cricket in the Wansbeck district thanks to the participation of all four clubs but particularly to Ian Wardle who yet again has done a fantastic job for cricket in Wansbeck."
Bedlington's former Collier Paul Straker hit consecutive half centuries – against Bomarsund in the first semi final and then against Ashington in the grand showpiece - but it was not enough to see his side home against the victorious hosts for whom left hander Neil Wood hit 31.
1st semi final – Bedlington v Bomarsund:
Bedlington 166-2 (John Mason 67 not out, Paul Straker 60)
Bomarsund 129-9 (Nick Whiteman 50).
(Bedlington won by 37 runs)
2nd semi final – Ashington v Northern Social:
Ashington 165-5 (Neil Wood 42, Martin Sexton 40)
Northern Social 73 all out (Greg Williams 3-1)
(Ashington won by 92 runs)
Grand Final: Bedlington v Ashington:
Bedlington 118-8 (Paul Straker 64, Graham Whitworth 3-15, Scott Thornton 3-18)
Ashington 119-6 (Neil Wood 31, Malcolm Humble 3-26)
(Ashington won by four wickets).
