PERSISTENT rain around teatime brought frustration for the majority of local cricketers last weekend.

However, Evesham's second team and Fladbury's senior side managed to beat the elements and their opponents but the weather decimated the Cotswold Hills League as only one match was played to a finish.

Fladbury's three-wicket win lifted them back into promotion contention from Division Six of the Crusader Worcestershire County League.

They made hard work, though, of scoring the meagre 51 for victory after John Martin (4-8) and Steve Redgewell (3-12) had helped demolish the Vine batting line-up.

Only Dave Phipps managed double figures in a winning reply that was only completed ten minutes before the heavy rain arrived.

Evesham's second string were indebted to a fine unbeaten 93 from Steve Charlton as they won by six wickets at Bromyard.

Skipper David Higginson (4-44) was the pick of a fine bowling display that also saw James Cutler (3-56) and Josh Nava (2-10) shine.

An impressive performance in the field helped the visitors dismiss Bromyard for 164 but, with rain in the air, the visitors knew quick runs would be of the essence.

Opener Charlton, ably supported by Matt Jackson (36), ensured the target diminished quickly and he was still there when the winning runs were struck.