THEY were the first triples to successfully defend the county title for 33 years and Pershore celebrated by reaching the national semi-finals at Leamington last week.

Not since Broadway won the Worcestershire title in 1966 and 67 has a team won back-to-back crowns, so the Pershore triple of Val Johnson, Kath Heywood and Marie Jones arrived at Leamington last Wednesday brimming with confidence.

And it showed as they overcame Barwell (Leics), March Conservative Club (Cambs) and Elvaston (Northumberland) to reach the last eight on the strength of 21-16, 20-17 and 19-13 victories respectively.

An early start in miserable weather conditions last Friday saw them trailing Wiltshire champions Corsham 14-5. However, their tremendous spirit shone through as they picked up a remarkable 11 shots in three ends to run out 19-15 winners.

Pouring rain greeted their semi-final appearance against Kingscroft (Leics) and the result matched the weather as they succumbed 23-12.

"We were soundly beaten," said Marie. "But we did better then we ever imagined."