THE showpiece match of the Westmorland League cricket season was marred by the "loutish" and "drunken" behaviour of a section of supporters according to some spectators.

The final of the Hackney and Leigh Trophy, which was contested by Arnside and Windermere at Burneside Cricket Club on Sunday, was spoiled by a group of Windermere fans whose bad language and lewd behaviour ruined the day for many, say some Arnside supporters.

Westmorland Cricket League historian John Glaister, who was at the game, said: "A quintessential Westmorland cricket occasion was spoiled by a small section of the crowd comprising young men and women. Their alcohol-fuelled boorish behaviour caused annoyance and offence to me and other civilised cricket watchers in attendance."

At one point the game had to be stopped when a male streaker emerged from the group and ran onto the pitch, hurdling the wicket before running back to the cheers of his friends.

One Arnside supporter says that the group caused such a disturbance that she saw several people pack away their chairs to leave early.

She also claims that "the presentation could not be heard because of their rowdyism."

Bar manager at Burneside Cricket Club Ian Huck said that the group caused him "no problems" and there was never any suggestion that he would have to refuse to serve any of them.

A representative of Arnside Cricket Club said: "There is a fine line between what is good-natured banter and what is offensive. The worst thing was the bad language, especially with so many children around."

He also wished to emphasise that, despite the behaviour of the group, the game, which was won by Windermere, was played in good spirit and there was no bad feeling between the teams.

Another spectator, who did not wish to be named, believes that the group were simply enjoying an afternoon in the sunshine: "If you went down to Old Trafford you'd see exactly the same thing although I do realise village cricket is a bit different," he said.

Captain of Windermere Joe Stephenson was aware of the fans being a "bit loud" and chanting give us a wave' but he believes that the streaker was nothing more than a "bit of fun".

"They were young men who'd had a drink and I daresay some of the language was fruity but I wasn't aware of any unpleasantness. However, I was quite a long way away from them."

Tracey Dixon of the Westmorland Cricket League was unable to say whether or not any complaints had been received as the league secretary was on holiday but she did say that league adhered to the English Cricket Board's strict disciplinary code of conduct and any complaints would be taken seriously.