Colebridge hosted its first ever Stratford League fixture last night ( October 5th ) as last seasons joint champions Pasties and Shottery A, met at Birmingham and Solihulls only dedicated ,single-use table tennis facility.  

Shottery A have strengthened over the Summer with the signing of Craig Witheford, a product of Ken Bakers coaching at Littleton table tennis club, a modest young man of considerable talent, he is a credit to his club and himself. 

17-year-old Craig dropped one set all evening, his first, to Tom Shortley, that aside he never looked seriously troubled in a polished display.

Tom Shortley, the self-styled " Ginger Ninja " was the star for The Pasties, leaving it all on the table in a passionate performance.

The powerfully built right-hander had to battle to overcome the newly svelte Gary Stewart, in four sets, in what was arguably the best match of the evening.

Stewarts 100% individual record has already been compromised for this season, though he didn't drop an end against Mike Credland or Mike Evetts, and looks in fine fettle. 

Cornishman Credland will be rueing being on the wrong end of a 5 set defeat by Steve Foster, in a match of the materials, Credlands anti spin against the sponge less pips of Foster. 

Shottery, in traditional style, called the doubles first after winning the toss, and the Shortley/Evetts pairing succeeded in three sets but it was the Pasties solitary point, together with Toms brace, leaving the match score at 3-7. 

The contest ended shortly after 10.00 pm, leaving ample time for post-match refreshments at The Colebrook.