ALVECHURCH and Hopwood CC were cock-a-hoop after securing the Worcestershire League Division Three crown and sealing promotion with victory over title rivals Himbleton on Saturday The title battle had been hard fought, with three teams all in with a chance on the final day but Church’s four-wicket win over the third-placed opponents put the finishing touches to a memorable campaign.

Alvechurch won the toss but Himbleton got off to a brisk start before consistent swing bowling from the Alvechurch attack saw wickets tumble at regular intervals.

The hosts were eventually bowled out for 226 in their 46th over, with Alastair Pretty top scoring with an attractive 52.

The wickets were shared between all five of Alvechurch’s bowlers, Mark Reuben enjoying most success with three Himbleton scalps.

A brute of a delivery from Mike Rogers to skipper Matt Hayward in the first over of their reply gave Himbleton early cause for hope but a lively knock of 74 by his fellow opener Adam Markham Jones took the game away from the home side.

Alvechurch’s most consistent batsman of the season, Eddy Rodgers, and lusty contributions from Keith Rostill (47) and Ivan Burgess (31) guided the newly-crowned champions to victory.