The popularity of the sport in this district owes a great deal to its roots in Church organisations and some sides still celebrate that connection in their club name.

The close ties are evidence of the part the Church plays in village life. It is a central focus for communities and can play a key role in helping villages and small towns keep a sense of identity and deal with a range of issues.

The "Let us Play" exhibition on display at St Andrew's Methodist Church, Halifax, comes at a time when churches are under threat. One in five is expected to close over the next 25 years.

Among the biggest burdens for Churches are the buildings themselves, many of which are beautiful and important heritage treasures.

The cost of their upkeep is staggering. A problem of this size can only be dealt with at Government level. But when decisions are being taken about funding help, account must be taken of the community value of Churches – whether it is supporting the local cricket team, youth work or mums groups.

Churches, pubs and post offices certainly provide a disparate range of services but they do have two things in common. They are part of the make-up of a thriving community – and they are disappearing fast.

The balance sheet might suggest closure but the long-term cost to society – and in particular to some proud, close-knit communities – could be far greater than any savings made.