SHIPSTON-on-Stour and Bretforton are setting the pace in the John Shepherd Cotswold Hills Cricket League Premier Division.

Bret’s second consecutive win left them just two points behind early leaders Shipston as they beat Exhall and Wixford by two wickets at home.

The visitors were dismissed for 177 before the Vale side staggered home for 20 points on 178-8.

Shipston, meanwhile, thrashed Wellesbourne by 91 runs.

Elmley Castle are bottom of the table after their match at defending champions Earlswood was abandoned and Broadway were also frustrated by the weather against Long Itchington.

In Division One, Ashton-under-Hill have lost their first two games, slipping to a seven-wicket home defeat to Rowington in their latest clash.

Badsey and The Lenches are leading the way in Division Two.