Baxenden claimed only their fifth Ribblesdale League title on Saturday – but they were nervy and anxious after being held up by the rain.

Andy Caunce’s men were in a good position at Padiham when they were forced off while the only side who could catch them, Read, were flying at Earby and chasing just 60 to take the title race into a final day.

But they couldn't get back on at The Applegarth – and that no result sparked a party for Bash as they got their hands on the silverware they last won two years ago.

Padiham were 42-2 when the rain arrived at The Arbories, while Read were well and truly in the box seat as they skittled Earby for just 59.

Their frustration meant delight for Bash who partied long into the night.

They have won 17 games compared to Read and Banoldswick’s 18 – but they have picked up a staggering 50 bonus points over the course of the campaign with pro Babar Naeem going through the 100 wicket mark.

In contrast, Read claimed just 20 bonus points and Barlick 25.

Cherry Tree lost professional Paul Turner for two but Mark Hadfield (14 not out) and Scott Friend (16 not out) were looking good as their side reached 34-1 at Barnoldswick when it rained nine overs in, while Clitheroe were 28-2 in their derby at Whalley when that match fell victim to the weather.

Ribblesdale Wanderers were 38-2 at home to Settle when Church Meadow was engulfed by the rain, while Salesbury were in the groove at Oswaldtwistle Immanuel when they were abandoned.

The Red Caps recovered from the loss of Ian Rabagliati for six as skipper Jason Rawson (23 not out) and James Watson (25 not out) took them to a healthy 55-1 from the 15 overs possible.

The game between Edenfield and Great Harwood was abandoned without a ball being bowled with Gincroft Lane unfit.