GRAHAM Knowles smashed a magnificent unbeaten 183 for Haslingden against Rawtenstall at Bacup Road - and smashed his way into the Lancashire League record books.

The 22-year-old, who was playing today for Lancashire seconds at Fleetwood, hit seven sixes and 18 fours to beat the league batting record for an amateur or a pro.

His incredible 183 not out surpassed West Indian Colne professional Collis King's 179 against Todmorden in 1982, the previous highest individual score since limited overs were introduced.

He also broke the Haslingden all-time batting record of George Parker, the first man to score 1,000 runs in the league, an unbeaten 164 set in 1906 against East Lancs.

Ian Austin, who went on to play for Lancashire, had held the Haslingden individual batting record in limited overs with a 149 not out against Church in 1985.

"I feel elated about it but I felt tired at the end," said Knowles.

"It's a great feeling - I hope my name remains there for a long time."

Haslingden secretary Chris Aspin said: "It was a remarkable day and a remarkable innings.

"I don't think we'll see the likes of it again."

Bacup opener Mark Taylor made a maiden Lancashire League century, a 100 against Ramsbottom, as Bacup took four points at Acre Bottom.

Rishton closed the gap on early pace-setters Lowerhouse after taking maximum points in both their games.

And Haslingden have now emerged as one of the title chasers.

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