THE dismal summer continued to play havoc with the HPH York Vale Cricket League with several matches falling foul of the weather.

But nothing could dampen the spirit of Norwich Union, who beat their closest rivals Askham Bryan YPO by 39 runs and took a giant step to retaining their first division title.

The only other game to escape the weather in the top division saw Westow make their division one status secure by dishing out a ten-wicket defeat to British Sugar.

Despite a second successive loss Burn still have a healthy lead at the top of Division Two.

Thixendale, who won by two wickets, closed the gap on Wheldrake, who went down at home to rejuvenated Ovington.

Burton Salmon lost by six wickets at Kelfield and face a prompt return to Division Three.

There is little to pick between Heworth and York at the top of Division Three. Heworth were rained off while York hit the day's top score of 182-5 on their way to defeating Malton & Old Malton. Clifton Alliance slipped into third position following their 34-run at Thorpe Willoughby.

Division Four leaders Acomb were surprised by a resilient Selby fight back which saw the visitors win by two wickets and give them hope of avoiding the drop.

There is no such hope for Melbourne, who were soundly beaten by Bishopthorpe, who are in second place.

Ovington need a further four points from their remaining two games to take the Division Five title after their big win at Stockton Hopgrove while Selby made it a club double with their win over Wheldrake.

Updated: 09:23 Monday, August 23, 2004