It was a day to remember for Shrewsbury - and the Barnard brothers - as the delighted London Roaders wrapped up a third Birmingham League premier division title inside six years with a game to spare.

Rob Foster's men showed no mercy for mid-table Walmley, handing out a 113 run beating, to ensure they can relax and enjoy Saturday's final match of another highly successful season at Kidderminster, safe in the knowledge the prestigious silverware is theirs once more.

Shrewsbury were determined to make sure this was the day that signalled the start of their title celebrations - and they didn't disappoint as they delivered another typically dominant performance.

Having set a competitive target of 225-6, the three Barnard brothers got to work with the ball, sharing all 10 Walmley wickets between them, as the visitors were rolled over for 112.

Worcestershire's rising star Ed Barnard, the youngest of the siblings, led the way with a haul of 4-24 while he was well supported by Mike (3-29) and Steve (3-30).

"We had a very strong bowling attack and it was great for the Barnard brothers to take all 10 wickets - it's not something which has happened before," said Foster. "There were also a few caught Barnard bowled Barnard in there!

"They're all very different lads and bowlers, but they complement each other so well and love playing for Shrewsbury."

Shrewsbury earlier opted to bat first and Foster was pleased with their efforts in battling their way up to 225-6 from 50 overs.

Opener Steve Leach, their star man with the bat this summer, top scored with 54 while there were also useful contributions from Tom Cox (42), Worcestershire allrounder Joe Leach (40) and Ed Foster (23).

"It was a very sticky wicket," said skipper Foster. "To get 225 was probably above par but we played very well and really applied ourselves."

Foster stressed Saturday night's celebrations were special - he still managed to get up bright and early the following morning to play Shrewsbury Sunday League football for SAHA - as the county towners reflected on another excellent season which has see them prove themselves as the region's best team.

He insisted it been a real team effort with the bowlers leading the way this time.

"Steve Leach has been outstanding with the bat," he said. "But in comparison to when we last won the league in 2013 we've been quite a bit down on runs. The bowlers have been a massive factor this time.

"At the start of the season we lost Elliot Green - who has taken a lot of wickets for us in recent years - and Joe Leach has only played three matches as he's done so well for Worcestershire's first team, but the Barnard boys have bowled very well, and so have Sam Griffiths, Charlie Morris and Henry Blofield."

Meanwhile, SHREWSBURY II completed a successful day for the club by pulling off an excellent 57 run win at Shifnal II, the reserve division one leaders.

Steady knocks from Richard Williams (41), Australian Jehan Bilimoria (38) and Toby Jones (36) pushed the Shrewsbury score up to 194-9.
Tim Dean then maintained his fine form by taking 5-17 as Shifnal were bowled out for 137.

Shrewsbury, in fourth place, know victory at home to Coventry & NW II in Saturday's final game will see them finish in the top three.

Picture: Shropshire Star