Pat Murphy – broadcaster, journalist and author of 40+ books, most recently BBC Sports Report: A Celebration – first entertained us in our Cottingham days, back in 2019, and his return brought another cavalcade of enjoyable tales.
Now he introduced us to his 'Murphy XI' dream team, all players he wrote with or about during his 47-book writing and broadcasting career.
He took us at pace through his openers, middle order and all-rounders, then on to the bowling attack. All speed, no twirl in this particular side!
As you'd expect, there are some notable names in there: Graham Gooch, Alec Stewart, David Gower, Viv Richards, Bob Willis, Basil d'Oliveira, Ian Botham, Wasim Akram, Imran Khan, Mike Procter, Alan Donald.
Not to mention walk-on parts for Jeff Lynne, Eric Clapton and Elton John.
It's clear that the worlds of cricket, sport, music and fame can collide in interesting ways!
After the break, our Q&A got off to an unusual start when our youngest member trumped Chairman Michael for the honour of the first question.
In reply, Pat gave some insights into the wide variety of places he's visited, including one where an order for tea for two at 10am was interpreted as tea for ten at 2am – and delivered as such!
Michael then pitched in, wondering whether Pat's team should feature a Yorkshireman or two, which naturally prompted a Geoffrey Boycott tale.
We also pondered who would captain the Murphy XI.
Ian Botham would have demanded the job, thought Pat, but his choice would be Viv Richards.
And what about a spinner to add to the team?
Bishen Bedi was the answer.
Pat had brought along copies of his latest book, BBC Sports Report: A Celebration of the World's Longest-Running Sports Radio Programme, and signed and sold them all.
How much did he draw on the BBC Sound Archive? we asked.
Not a lot, he replied. Apparently much was lost during the move to Salford and, as the corporation is 'pared to the bone', there's no back up.
What qualities does Pat look for in a commentator?
One who 'makes me wish I was there', he says. One who tops and tails every piece by giving the score. And one who describes the action, even on television, as if the listener is blind.
Maggie thanked Pat for closing our winter in fine style, and he ended to a generous round of applause.
The raffle raised £179, so very many thanks to everyone who helped that total along.
I wish you all a great season of cricket in 2024 and hope that Yorkshire manage to extricate themselves from Division 2 with enjoyable and match-winning batting, bowling and fielding!
Cathy Rennison