LADYBIRDS ‘A’ won division one of the York & District Netball League for the first time and lifted the trophy at the organisation’s presentation evening last week.

They were a new name on the plinth after champions and runners-up for the past three seasons, Haxby 1 and Rufforth ‘A’, were among eight teams who joined the new North Yorkshire League.

Ladybirds, who have been one of York & District’s top four teams for many years, went from strength to strength after Christmas and held off the challenge of Haxby 3.

York St John won back-to-back titles – following up their division three success of a year ago by taking the division two crown.

They will be joined in the top flight by Rawcliffe 3, who finished just one place ahead of their club-mates in Rawcliffe’s fourth squad.

Elvington 3 topped division three and they were followed by their club’s second-string in gaining promotion.

Aviva finished five points ahead of nearest rivals Ladybirds ‘B’ to win division four, while a young Millers 3 team took division five – losing just one match over the 16-week campaign.

For the second successive year Hamilton Panthers gained promotion without conceding a match, and will be playing division five netball next year. They scored 221 goals – more than anyone else in division six – and boasted the best defensive record.

New team Royal Fe-mails topped the table in division seven and were promoted along with runners-up Magpies.


New teams plea

Anyone interested in forming a netball club for next season should phone Jane on 01904 628590 for further details and before mid-July when York & District League entries are submitted.