BACUP Borough were crowned NWC League Division Two champions on Saturday after their only challengers Stone Dominoes failed to win at Padiham.

Stone needed maximum points from their final three games to knock already promoted Bacup off the top.

Delighted Bacup boss Brent Peters said: "Some of my players were at Padiham and kept me informed by telephone. It's the icing on the cake for us."

Bacup have arranged a friendly match with Accrington Stanley for Wednesday night (kick-off 7.30pm) so they can lift the trophy in front of their fans. Admission is free.

Meanwhile, Stone were denied the chance of becoming champions after nine-man PADIHAM held them to a 1-1 draw at the Arbories.

Andy Brownsword gave Stone the lead with a 25-yard curler. Scott Gizon equalised five minutes into the second half before Robbie Smith and John Harrison were controversially sent off.

NELSON'S goalless draw at Ashton meant they ended the season with a six game unbeaten run. Steve Pickup had several chances and Dave Leigh went close.

GREAT HARWOOD TOWN extended their unbeaten run to nine games with a 2-2 draw at Castleton Gabriels.

The Robins conceded an early penalty before Richard Fogarty equalised. Anthony Green headed Town in front but Gabs scored a late equaliser.

Mossley beat an understrength CLITHEROE team 3-1to hand the NWC Division One title to Prescot Cables.

Gary Jackson netted his 25th of the season for a late consolation goal.

RAMSBOTTOM UNITED earned a point with a late equaliser at Nantwich Town.

Brookes' 10-yard volley fired the Rams in front on 52 minutes, but Wilkinson equalised on the hour before Nantwich went in front through Harkness' deflected shot.

Brookes netted his second for the Rams' equaliser.