GLADSTONE C struck a blow in the fight to become Northwich and District League champions after beating closest rivals Rudheath.

Shaun Brearley and Adam Griffiths both contributed maximum breaks for the hosts on Wednesday in a 5-2 victory that establishes a 13-point lead at the Division One summit.

It is also their ninth league victory in a row this season.

Castle Private B closed to within six points of Rudheath following a 6-1 win at home to Barn Owl C, with Carl Day recording a first 8-ball break of the campaign.

Gladstone B are fourth after a third straight success, this time at Castle Private A’s expense.

The evening’s closest encounter was at Owley Wood A, where the hosts recovered from 2-0 down to win a deciding frame when Dave Ellis sunk the final black.

Division Two leaders Green Dragon A responded to a first defeat of the season last week by demolishing promoted Chapels.

Their advantage over second-placed Barn Owl B, comfortable victors at Greenbank C, is worth four points.

Nick Clarke and Andy Perrin won the final two frames for Greenbank A as they came from behind to beat back-markers Wheatsheaf, rising to third in the standings as a reward.

Elsewhere The Lion A continue to impress, a fifth win from their past half-dozen encounters keeps them in contention for a promotion place.

Captain Graham Harkness won a deciding frame for Owley Wood B against guests Iron Bridge.

Youngster Rhyss Jones held his nerve to win a final frame shoot-out for Barn Owl E in their defeat of Greenbank B in Division Three.

After eight successive wins the Barnton outfit lead Nectar’s, victors at home to Green Dragon B, by seven points at the top of the table.

The Lion B recorded a fifth successive win, with Witton Chimes B on the receiving end, to climb to fourth.