CHESHIRE’S women will be promoted as champions after collecting the points they needed to finish top of their section on Sunday.

They recorded wins against both Leicestershire and Shropshire in rain-affected contests to secure first place in the ECB Women's County Championship’s T20 Division Three.

And a five-strong contingent from Oakmere played a part helping them there.

Captain Dawn Prestidge was joined by wicket-keeper Phoebe Cottam, Sarah Worsdale, Raffa Rodighiero and Kerry Hartnett at Long Whatton.

Together they saw off the hosts by 13 runs after posting 67-7 in a contest reduced to 16 overs a side.

Rodighiero (2-3 off four overs) was the pick of the bowlers as Leicestershire replied with 54-3.

Shropshire totalled 67-7 in the second game, but Cheshire recorded a seven-wicket win on run-rate after reaching a revised target of 53-3 following a delay prompted by a change in the weather.

“It’s a great feeling to go up after topping the table,” said coach James Hendry.

“The county club is in a period of transition, but the players that have represented us this summer have put that to one side and played some superb cricket while having fun on the field.

“We’ve a good mix of youth and experience, and can’t wait for the challenge of playing at a higher level next season.”