EVESHAM clinched promotion to the first division of the Worcestershire County League with an emphatic victory last Saturday when Neal Radford was firing on all cylinders.

Despite losing the toss Evesham were delighted to be batting on a belter of a wicket at Avon Street but, though the top three of Lewis, Collins and Clements all looked in good nick, they all suffered lapses in concentration to be dismissed early.

This brought Mike Granacki to the crease to join the now set Radford and the pair made the game of cricket look so easy with a 140-run partnership.

The experience of the former Worcestershire all-rounder, who played shots to all parts, was equally matched by timing and busy cricket from Granacki who didn't need another sniff to pick up on any mistake in the deep to pinch a run.

He was unluckily run out but only after making a great contribution of 62 in his final game of the summer.

Radford went on to complete his first century for the club to huge applause from his teammates and an ever growing number of spectators. He was unbeaten on 133 when skipper Jon Gregory declared on 255-4 at the end of the 46th over.

This allowed the home side 25 minutes at Brockhampton before tea which proved beneficial as quick thinking from Quinn Jones, and an arm to match, ran out opener Mason for just one, to give Evesham a great start.

After tea, Jones was given the ball and when Walker held out to Ian Prince at mid off fourth ball in it looked like being rout.

But, to be fair to Brockhampton, they dug in and were competent enough to put any bad balls away.

Cook was the pick of the batsmen and, when the replay had reached 216-7 with six overs left, Cook could see light at the end of the tunnel to ruin Evesham's celebrations.

With options running out Gregory turned to Paul Jones and he responded to the challenge as Williams edged to Clements.

Next ball Jacobs was bowled and in the next over Radford had Macklin caught at fourth slip by Quinn Jones to wrap up victory.

Radford finished with 4-53 to complete a great day while Paul Jones's short spell reaped the reward of figures of 3-21.

Saturday's league decider at Eastnor is already being well supported. A coach will be leaving the old post office in the High Street at 11am. Spectators will be welcome, just turn up at the departure point.