WHEN Selkirk Cricket Club’s 1st XI clinched their third Border League title in 1898, after defeating Hawick & Wilton at Buccleuch Park in their final fixture, news of the victory was carried back to Selkirk by a homing pigeon.

This is just one of many fascinating facts contained in the booklet '150 Years of Cricket at Philiphaugh', published earlier this month to celebrated the 150th anniversary of the club’s move to Philiphaugh in June, 1872.

Border Telegraph: Book jacket

The publication is packed with articles about the players, office-bearers, supporters and volunteers who have helped maintain Philiphaugh’s reputation as one of Scotland’s most picturesque cricket grounds, and the club one of the country’s friendliest.

“It’s been something of a labour of love,” said the booklet’s author John Smail, a former player who is now the club’s secretary and vice-chair.

“Over the years Philiphaugh has been graced by some of the game’s most famous players, iconic cricketers such as Wilfred Rhodes, Frank Woolley, Learie Constantine, Keith Miller, Imran Khan and Joel Garner.

Border Telegraph: The Philiphaugh pavilion – home to Selkirk Cricket Club for 150 years.The Philiphaugh pavilion – home to Selkirk Cricket Club for 150 years.

“The 150th anniversary season was always going to be a special one for the club,” he added. "It is doubly satisfying that the current Selkirk team, captained by Greg Fenton, was able to clinch promotion to East League Division 2 – the side’s highest ever ESCA ranking.

“Selkirk Cricket Club’s innings at Philiphaugh undoubtedly has a long way to run, and I hope this publication reflects such an optimistic outlook.”

The 78-page publication is priced at £5, and is available to buy at Selkirk Post Office, Selkirk Distillers’ shop, the Scott’s Selkirk shop and from the Philiphaugh clubrooms.

Copies can also be purchased by contacting Selkirk Cricket Club secretary John Smail (smail959@btinternet.com) tel. 01750 21616.