RAMPAGING Redditch have raced into an emphatic 45 point lead on top of the Worcester County League Premier Division after putting rivals Pedmore to the sword.

In a potentially tough fixture the reality proved different as Pedmore were put into bat and soon perished when bowled out for 97 runs in the space of 27 overs.

Quick bowler Ghulam Moyhuddin opened the door for Redditch by reeling off figures of five for 40 from his 10 overs spell.

Fellow quick Waqas Ali then claimed two for 15 from seven overs with slow bowler Haris Ali Mohammed snapping up two for 13 from six.

Only former Worcestershire player Jame Burgoyne made any impact with the bat for Pedmore with 26 not out.

Redditch then romped home within 20 overs to reach 98 for three, Tom Field 24 and skipper Russ Southwick on 19 laying the foundation for victory before overseas player Brandon Weal saw the side home with 21 not out.

Redditch spokesman Gary Fisher said: "Pedmore had beaten Worcester CC only the previous week but we've got momentum and consistency going for us at the moment.

"But we cannot be complacent and we must keep applying pressure on the teams chasing us."

Redditch entertain previous leaders Worcester CC in another crunch contest at Bromsgrove Road this Saturday (12.30pm start).

The current strength in depth at Redditch was underlined this week when their second XI went top of their Division.

The last time the seconds topped the table was in the year 2000 - when Redditch won promotion to the Birmingham League.