A NAIL-BITING run chase saw Whitchurch-based factory team BCM win the 2003 Aston Knockout.

The long-standing competition for non-regular cricketers saw BCM take on Sound Marquees, of Aston, in the final. The showdown was split over two evenings, with the teams batting 16 overs each on both occasions.

A large crowd turned out to offer their support on both nights.

BCM batted first and made 132-3, with Dean Mann 26 not out and N Chetwood unbeaten on 25.

Sound then edged into a first innings lead by finishing on 133-5 with James Lomas 33 not out and Paul Dean 25 not out. Shaun Hill took 2-17 for BCM.

The second match saw Sound post 110-3, with Dean taking his total for the final past the 50 mark with 26.

BCM struggled at first and for a time it appeared they would fall short of their target - but, in an exciting climax, they reached 112-6 with two balls to spare. D Stalker's 31 not out guided them home.

The EC Comber Cup was presented to the successful BCM team by representatives of the tournament sponsors, Andrew Johnson, from Prime Bake, and Ian Robinson, from J Lea Oakes.

* Phil Little claimed the £500 first prize in Aston Cricket Club's 222 draw.