Billy Artt

Billy was a long serving member during the late 50s through to the 70s and was involved in many aspects of the club. In 1957 under the 2nd XI captaincy of Alan Simpson, young Billy played a major role in taking the side into the semi finals of the Junior  Qualifying Cup. Three years later he was part of the 1st XI that entertained a powerful Kilmarnock team at The Green. From then on Billy was a key player on the 1st XI as an opening bat and wicketkeeper and came close to a Senior Challenge Cup Final when, having bowled out Muckamore for 83, they fell to the wily spin of Chambers and McQuilken.  He captained that side in 1963 and again from 1968 t0 1971 and it was during the 70s that success came to the 1st XI playing in Section 2. They won the title in 1971, ’73, ’77 and 1979. Surprisingly he never won the prestigious 1st XI Batting Rosebowl, but he was certainly a regular run maker in the side during these years. He partook in club tours and ‘sixes’ and later , through his business, sponsored different events.