Lancing Athletic cricketer John Beaney is 900 not out.

The 51-year-old made his 900th appearance for the West Sussex League side on Saturday in their 157-run defeat against Three Bridges IV.

John has been representing the club since the Sixties and has been secretary for the past 25 years.

He said: "I was 15-years-old when I started playing and it was 1960. When I first started I was an opening batsman and first change bowler. Now I am just a medium pace bowler."

John is also the club statistician, having started keeping records for his own benefit and just carried on building up the club's history.

He said: "I have records going back to 1966 and we have had 410 players represent us since then."

His own statistics reveal he has scored just under 14,000 runs in his 41 years, taking 1,250 wickets and 300 catches.

His dedication to Lancing Athletic has been crucial in the club's continued survival.

He said: "I don't know why I have stuck it for so long - because I am conscientious I guess and it helps keep the club going."

John has threatened to put his bat away for the last time but is still playing.

"People who know me will tell you that I have been saying every year for ten years that this one will be my last season," said John.

"But a lot of people tell me they regret giving up the game too quickly. I still enjoy the game and it is hard to come back to it if you give up."