Bexhill rocked by Blackman exit

Despite the fact that last year's vice-captain played for Bexhill in their pre-season friendly against Sidley, he intends to see out the summer with another former Bexhill man Ian Cox in the Parker Building Supplies East Sussex League at Heathfield Park.

The 35-year-old, who has won the Sussex League and Cup plus two individual awards for being county's leading wicket-taker in his 13 years at the club, explained: "I've had a good time but the last few years have been a bit of a struggle because the players I've played with have left. I'm struggling to be fit enough to open the bowling and also the travelling: a lot of the sides in the division are right over in West Sussex and it takes you out from about 10 in the morning 'til about 10 at night sometimes which is a long time when you've got a young family.

"I made up my mind shortly before that (Sidley) game. I just wasn't looking forward to the season so I thought it wasn't worth it. I suppose I've been considering it for the last few years but I didn't ever want it to end like that."

Whilst naturally disappointed at losing his prize asset, Bexhill captain Steve Phillimore insisted the split was conducted on amicable terms. He said: "He's got his reasons which I respect and understand. The disappointing thing is that it's so late in the day but we wish him well. He was a big player for us and I don't think there's any doubt that he was our best player last year. Losing one of your best players is always a shame but you've got to move on and it gives someone else an opportunity."

Whoever gets that chance couldn't face a much tougher baptism, however, than a visit from pre-season favourites Preston Nomads on Saturday May 8. Richard Harrison (conjunctivitis) is the one doubt but Mark Nightingale returns after missing last week's wash-out at Worthing. Play starts at 1.15pm.

Sidley, whose opening match was also abandoned last weekend, hope to include new overseas player Fasal Naved for the visit to Roffey.