Lichfield are back after final shoot-out

Tom Stone's side started the day two points adrift of leaders Beacon but clinched the title and promotion.

It came with a comfortable win over Aldridge, while their championship rivals could only muster a winning draw at home to Hammerwich.

An unbeaten 86 from Joe Seagar and 42 not out from Jack Warren fired Lichfield to a seven-wicket success and the champagne corks were popping when news of Beacon's draw filtered through.

Skipper Stone said: "It was quite a strange feeling sitting in the dressing room, after we had won, waiting to hear the result from Beacon.

"But then news came through and we are chuffed to bits We have had a great finish to the season with nine wins and two winning draws from the last 12 games.

"I think the best team has won the league. After 22 game,s I don't think anyone can dispute the best team has won.

"We have won the league without a massive contribution from an overseas player and that shows that we have a strong all-round side.

"Some of the younger players have taken responsibility and when you win a few games on the spin it becomes a habit."

Stone won the toss and opted to bowl first and then bagged three wickets, a feat matched by Warren, as Aldridge were restricted to 166-9.

Seager and Warren then led the victory charge after an early wobble. Stone said: "There was quite a lot of maths involved, but we were pretty certain Beacon would bat first and try to get 24 points.

"At 60-odd for three there was a chance we could mess it up. But Joe Seager was absolutely fantastic and Jack Warren batted very well."

Meanwhile, Beacon's hopes of securing the victory that would have clinched the title were dashed as Hammerwich batted out for a draw.

Half-centuries from Dan Green and Zak Smith plus an unbeaten 45 from Jason Swan helped Beacon post 207-9. Opener Patrick Knott struck 95 not out in reply as Hammerwich responded with 167-6.

Elsewhere, Cannock finished third following a 77-run success against Milford Hall.

At the other end of the table, Springvale finished rock bottom.

Swindon picked up an eight-wicket win over Penkridge to finish two points above Springvale and avoid relegation, with no Staffordshire teams coming down from the Birmingham League.