An unbeaten 115 from Shahbaz Butt helped Chingford record a 15 run win against Harold Wood in Division One in the Essex League Division One.

Batting first Chingford made223 for eight, thanks predominantly to the impressive display from Butt.

Wood began their chase well and opener Raihan Hussain (105) had given the batting side hope of taking victory.

But the Chingford bowling attack responded and Ben MacGregor (five for 31) was the catalyst for a collapse in the Wood batting order and the visitors could only make 208 all out.

Buckhurst Hill cruised to a six wicket victory against Gidea Park and Romford, a result which strengthens their position at the top of the table.

Batting first Park found themselves in trouble at 27 for three but Will Cooper (51) stabilised the innings and the home side eventually made 194 from their 50 overs.

Rob Petchey (two for 26) the pick of the Hill bowling attack.

Buckhurst’s batting line-up made easy work of their chase and thanks to Ian Russell (70) and Josh Peters (54) reached their target in 34 overs.

Fives and Heronians won their game against third placed Upminster by just four runs.

After winning the toss Heronains decided to bat and made a strong start thanks to openers Edward Buxton (22) and Terry Ballard (14). Phillip Apps came in at number four and hit a well constructed 71 as the visitors reached 247 all out.

Upminster started well in reply and looked to be in a good position on 176 for two. Akbar Jabar (81) and S. Rahman (95) both impressive with the bat.

But a collapse from the middle left Upminster agonisingly close to their total and fell four runs short.