CLEOBURY Mortimer sauntered to a five-wicket victory over back-markers Presteigne to maintain second spot in Marches League Division Two.

Opener Will Bartholomew (35) and James Chilman (33) had provided sporadic resistance for Presteigne but it was tail-ender Robin Sparey’s 41 that threatened to put the cat amongst the pigeons.

James Manley (2-27) eventually clean bowled the troublesome late-comer to limit Presteigne to 148 for eight off 45 overs, a total Cleobury made relatively light work of.

Captain Ed Kemp (52) and Ben Griffiths (50) contributed half-centuries to guide the high-flying league newcomers to 141 for five off 28 overs, securing a 22-point haul and 11-point cushion over Canon Frome in the race for a promotion place.

Elsewhere, Knighton-on-Teme skipper Matt James rattled off 101 as his side posted 245 at Luctonians II. The hosts could only muster 215.