North Runcton Cricket Club win Norfolk Alliance Premier Division title for first time in more than 30 years

North Runcton Cricket Club are celebrating a first Norfolk Alliance Premier Division title for more than 30 years.

The club, who last won the league back in 1987, rounded off a thrilling season by taking full advantage of Fakenham’s slip-up at home to Stow by defeating Diss by eight wickets.

Stow’s victory saw them finish in second spot – just 11 points behind the new champions – with last season’s champions Fakenham back in third.

North Runcton chairman Peter Coote, who played in the title-winning side of 1987, said: “Having seen most of the team develop from the junior section of North Runcton, I am particularly proud of their achievement.

“I think this will be a huge boost for the whole club and give everyone the belief that with hard work you can achieve your goals.

“This success is the result of a real team effort, with lots of contributions throughout the squad.

“After the result of the Stow v Fakenham game came through and the celebrations had died down a little, we had our end of season awards evening where first team captain, Ben Coote, thanked all the players for their support and commitment.”

North Runcton will now turn their attentions to the East Anglia Premier League play-off final on September 21, which is likely to be away.

n More in Friday’s Lynn News, but turn to pages 44 and 45 for a spread from Fakenham and Stow.