CHURCH Stretton RFC bowed out of the Midlands Junior Vase at the quarter-final stage after a narrow defeat at Harbury.

Stretton, who have lost all six of their fixtures in the Midlands 4 West (North) this season, put up a good fight but just came up short in Warwickshire, losing 15-12.

They return to action this Saturday when they host Essington for a crucial league fixture.

Ludlow can continue to climb Midlands 2 West (North) with victory at mid-table side Leek on Saturday.

Their league rivals Cleobury Mortimer face a tough afternoon when they welcome third-place outfit Spartans (Midlands) to Love Lane.

Tenbury will be hoping to pick their second victory of the season at home against bottom club Redditch in Midlands 4 West (South) while in the North, Clee Hill host league leaders Eccleshall.

Elsewhere, Bishop’s Castle could go top of the Midlands 5 West (North) with a home victory over St Leonards.