COOKLEY’S great run in the National Village Knockout came to an end in front of one of the largest crowds seen at Lea lane in the last 30 years as they were beaten by Northamptonshire side Weekley and Warton.

Defeat ended a brilliant run for the Lea Lane outfit, who had won the Worcestershire section and reached the national stages for their biggest game in 37 years.

On the way they defeated County League Champions Astwood Bank with a memorable performance.

Weekley and Warton won the toss and batted first.

Opener Jacob Palmer 63 top scored in their 201-9 Adam Nicholls with 4-46.

In reply, Cookley lost early wickets but a 50 partnership between Mark Bennett 36 and Jackie Taylor 34 gave some hope but in the end, they were all out for 137.

Weekley Chairman Colin Issitt wished to thank the club and the people of Cookley for their wonderful hospitality and sportsmanship.

Meanwhile, in the Worcestershire League Division Two, Cookley lost by five wickets to Enville.

The first’s batting was not that much better the day before where they collapsed from 80-0 to 160 all out giving Enville a comfortable win.

Cookley take on Feckenham at home on Saturd Meanwhile, the seconds were held to a winning draw by Droitwich.

Fine knocks from Chris Parkes (92) and Mike Wood (79) ensured a competitive total but in reply it was the Barton show, with dad ‘Dick’ taking 3-31 with 14 year -old son Charlie bowling his best ever spell for the club with 5-35.

The thirds recorded their first win of the season.

Veterans Martino Williams (54) and Phil Dixon (83) contributed to a good 40 over total of 214-5.

Bromyard always looked the more likely to win but were restricted to 210-5.