That was certainly the case with the opening league match against Clacton which, although it ended in a draw with a rough sharing of the points, indicated that Fakenham are a much less brittle team than they were last year.

After occupying the lower reaches of the table for most of the season, it was obvious that the club needed to strengthen its batting if it was to compete with the big boys.

At this level it's just not possible to rely on one or two players posting decent scores every week. In reality that's not going to happen and it's essential to have a strong middle order.

What I also liked about the home team's performance was its agility in the field. This makes such a difference as opponents are quick to take advantage of any weaknesses and exploit them to advantage.

So let's hope for a successful season and plenty of sun-filled and run-filled afternoons on the lawn.

And while we're in the sporting arena, many congratulations to Mervyn and Suzanne King after becoming the world indoor bowls mixed pairs champions.

They won the title in Swansea on a tie break in a very tense encounter with another married pairing from Jersey.

Mervyn's name has often been in the headlines, representing his country and winning the world singles title. But Suzanne only took up the sport some five years ago so this is a terrific achievement. Fakenham should be rightly proud of them both.

• A reminder that the second annual Wild About the Wensum event takes place at Pensthorpe on Saturday.

The park opens its gates to celebrate the natural history and cultural heritage of the Wensum valley, which is designated a Special Area of Conservation by both the European Union and Natural England.

Singer and songwriter David Gray, a particular favourite in this family, has agreed to make the official opening at 10am.

Visitors will be treated to a host of activities for all the family plus the opportunity to explore the reserve at leisure. There is just a £3 charge for parking.

• Mention has been made before of the parking hazards along Field Lane just up from the entrance to Fakenham College.

An increasing number of students now drive in rather than use other forms of transport and, as there is no room for them to park on site, Field Lane has become the favoured place for leaving a dozen or more vehicles.

This has caused great concerns for residents and just about everyone else who drives or cycles up or down this particular stretch. As a bike person and user of the route, I've been aware of the dangers from the outset.

At this month's council meeting, our county councillor advised that double yellow lines will shortly be applied to stop the parking.

Students will have to go elsewhere – maybe the Highfield Road park which I suggested a few weeks back. If it means a bit of a walk at both ends of their day, I'm sure that in itself will be a good thing.