KIDDERMINSTER captain Neil Pinner has praised his side's character after their battling success over Wellington.

The skipper thinks the way his players dug deep during Saturday's contest shows just how far they have come since last season's relegation disappointment.

Away side KCC made 227 after winning the toss and choosing to bat.

Returning Worcestershire prospect Ben Twohig top scored with 68 to help his side to a competitive total.

Basement boys Wellington started their reply in determined fashion with number three Dan Lloyd leading their fight.

However, once Lloyd (51) and Simon Khomari (47) were removed by Pinner and Charlie Stainforth respectively the visitors were quick to turn the screw.

Stainforth and Chris Steele went on to take three wickets each to mop up the tail and seal the success.

The 16-run win leaves KCC joint top of Birmingham and District League Division One heading into the 55-over format this weekend.

Pinner said: "It wasn't the best wicket but we wanted to set them a good total because we thought spin would come into it in the second innings.

"They batted really well in the middle overs and we made a few fielding mistakes and found it hard to build pressure. That allowed them to stay with the run-rate for a long time.

"In the end we came out on top and I was really pleased with how the team dug deep.

"It's a game we may have lost last season but the attitude and character has changed now.

"There are still a few things we'd like to improve. We'd have liked a few more runs and could have bowled a bit better but the most pleasing aspect was how we all dug in and showed the character we needed."

Second-placed Kidderminster will now welcome third-placed Shifnal to Chester Road this Saturday (noon start) for an intriguing early season encounter.

Ben Twohig should be available once again due to Worcestershire involved in One-Day Cup action.

Pinner will have further options thanks to the availability of Matt Pardoe for the next two weeks as well as the return of Barney Morgan.

Meanwhile, KCC host Bromsgrove on Sunday (4.15pm start) in the National T20 Cup.