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Division Two East

Chorleywood secured their place in Division Two East for another year by a single point after a 69-run victory at home against Hemel Hempstead, a result which sent West Herts down.

After winning the toss, Wood decided to bat first and Ed Lye hit his maiden century for the club as he made 107 not out.

Lye was ably assisted by Will Pendred, who completed another half-century, as the home side posted an imposing 284 for six with Brett Penny the pick of the Hemel bowlers after he took three for 55.

In reply, Penny opened up the batting and made 50 before being dismissed by James Smithson. Pendred then ran through the rest of the line-up to bowl them out for 215 as he recorded fine figures of six for 32.

Chorleywood’s victory relegated West Herts, even though they secured a thrilling one-wicket victory over Letchworth Garden City.

Chasing 255 to win, Stags opener Alastair Lewis made 37 and Craig Sanders hit 66 as their side got home but the scenes of celebration were to prove shortlived.

West Herts chairman Dennis Lock reflected: “It was a season of ‘what ifs’; a penalty point for slow over rate, a last-ball loss to Chorleywood, a controversial game in which Chorleywood were awarded 25 points when Knebworth Park conceded their penultimate game, and two Hertforshire sides being relegated from the first division of the HCPCL all contributed to the fate of West Herts.

“Nevertheless, ultimately, it was down to opportunities lost and chances not taken that resulted in relegation. The club will now focus on bouncing back in the 2013/2014 season.”