Bideford / Littleham / Westward Ho! chasing down the leaders

It is developing into a fine season for Bideford / Littleham / Westward Ho! in the B Division of the Devon Cricket League.

Chasing down leaders Bridestowe, the North Devon outfit hosted third-placed Cullompton on Saturday and swatted their way to a powerful 271-6 in the opening innings. Oliver Hannam led the way with a sumptuous 146 from 124 balls. James Ford (38) and Tom Brend (41) also chipped in for a healthy total.

The bowlers then took their turn with Alex Hannam removing both openers and Cullompton were in desperate strife on 13-3 and 26-4. To their credit, the visitors rallied down the order and captain Brandon Parr amassed a determined 92.

The hosts, however, had done enough, and Hannam finished with figures of 4-41.  Bideford / Littleham / Westward Ho! travel to Ipplepen this weekend and will be hoping Bridestowe slip up at Plymstock.

Moving down the DCL pyramid, Newton Tracey are just three points behind leaders Whimple 2nds in G Division East after a comfortable eight-wicket triumph at Heathcoat 4ths.

Connor Nash was the lead bowler for Newton, taking 4-40, but the home total of 235 represented a big test for the batters. It was a test they passed with admirable comfort.

Oliver Symons started the chase with a fluent 40 and he was backed up by Kieran Soper (71) and a cavalier 77 not out from the impressive Nash. Newton lost just two wickets and passed the Heathcoat score inside 30 overs.