CHINGFORD’S promotion chances were put on ice after they were taught a harsh lesson by Ruislip in freezing conditions at their Waltham Way ground.

In one of only two games in London One North to survive the weather at the weekend, Chingford lost valuable ground on the leaders, falling four points off the pace of frontrunners Civil Service, having played a game more.

The 54-15 scoreline was the team’s worst defeat in recent memory. However, after falling behind early on Ben Bolton-Smith crashed over to pull Chingford to within a point after Kurt Forward had added the extras.

But ill-discipline in the second half allowed Ruislip to gallop clear of their hosts, with Steve Piper’s try proving little more than a consolation. Meanwhile, the mouthwatering local derby match between Eton Manor and Woodford succumbed to the big freeze, and will be arranged for another date.

In London Three North East, Wanstead were frozen out by Dagenham, going down 23-12.

The defeat leaves the team in the relative comfort of lower mid-table.

The games in Essex One also fell victim to the weather, but Loughton made the most of the conditions in Essex Two, enjoying a 20-8 victory over May & Baker.

Having ended 2009 in style, Loughton were keen to make some big strides early in the new year. And they did just that at the weekend, although some sloppy handling cost them the chance to open the scoring early on.

However, after a period of pressure, Matt Thompson crossed the line for the opening try.

Mike Estall then followed suit as Loughton gathered momentum.

Ben Newbury galloped over after collecting a cross-field kick, and Daniel Stavrinou went over for the Hornbeam Road team’s fourth score of the day to put them well out of reach of the visitors.

Elsewhere, Ongar played out an entertaining 15-15 draw with Writtle Wanderers.