LUDLOW CC began their Shropshire Premier season in victorious fashion as skipper Louis Watkins and Joe Williams produced stunning efforts with the ball against Allscott Heath.

Batting first, Ludlow owed a fair portion of their 195 all out to Richard Taylor’s excellent 74, with opener Sam Alford also contributing 44.

However, their tail failed to wag as Ludlow lost their final five wickets for just 48 runs from 147-5, leaving the bowlers a relatively tiny total to defend.

They were up to the task as Allscott Heath were quickly reduced to 72-6 and although skipper Jason Allen (42no) resisted, Watkins (5-68) and Williams (4-37) dismissed the visitors for 169.

There was no such luck for Bishops Castle in Division Four as they were dismissed for 99 in reply to Bridgnorth thirds’ 180-8.

In the Worcestershire League, skipper Ed Kemp’s half century helped Cleobury Mortimer to a six-wicket victory over Kiddwerminster fourths in Division Seven.

Batting first, Kidderminster posted 193-7 as Andy Logan (71) top-scored with Liam Williams (2-24) and Harry Booton (2-41) headed the Cleobury bowling figures.

In reply, Mortimer cruised to their target as Kemp hit 59, with Williams (42no) and James Manley (39 ret no) chipping in before Michael Green (24no) helped them home.