SUPER stalwarts Bryan Colley and Andy Platt were the heroes of a crucial Stourport victory over Martley in Worcestershire Saturday League Division Two.

The 77-run success at Walshes Meadow maintained the town's status in the division, leaving them ninth in the table.

Colley dominated a 96-run opening partnership with Steve Davis (33) and then found support from the in-form Chris Young (45).

He eventually fell after flailing 68 but late cameos from John Shackleton and Phil Williams secured a final total of 237-5 off an innings reduced by rain to 48 overs.

Platt (4-56) took a wicket with the first ball of the innings and proceeded to menace the Martley top order with great support from Bevan Neill.

There were also important wickets for Williams and Martin Brewer but the final say went to man of the match Colley.

He held on triumphantly to the catch which rounded off the crucial success.

Neill is standing down as captain after a season in charge forced by an early injury to Nigel Turner.

He said: "It has been a difficult second half of the season with several key players moving permanently away from the area.

"With injuries thrown in, the club has been unable to field a settled side.

"We showed great character in bouncing back from recent defeats. The key thing will be to re-group over the winter and acquire some new players.

"Our winter nets begin in January and anyone interested in joining next season will be welcome."

Stourport 237-5, Martley 160.

Stourport seconds' match at Martley was abandoned due to rain after a makeshift town side had struggled to 116-9.

Rich Allen stroked 22 runs and Aaron O'Malley added an unbeaten 21.