RI Amateurs have tasted defeat in the York Amateur Bowling Association League division one for the first time in two years.

Amateurs were beaten 6-2 at Selby thanks to a costly 25 per cent reduction for playing short after one shot separated the sides.

The two clubs are already clear at the top of the table and they appear to be the main contenders for the title.

Bootham suffered their first defeat of the division two season as they went down 5-3 at home to Wetherby.

They retain top spot, but four other clubs are within three points of them.

The top two clubs in division three collided and Harrogate came away with a 7-1 win over Osbaldwick.

Copmanthorpe stormed into second with consecutive 8-0 victories, over Vickers and City Amateurs.

• Officials have paid tribute to CIU Bowls League president Derek Marshall, who has died.

Marshall served as president for 12 years, and a league spokesman said: “He will be sadly missed by the many bowlers who knew him. Our condolences go to his widow, Mary, and members of his family.”

• The Yorkshire Bowls Association Zone Four two-wood singles will be held at York RI on Sunday, May 30. Meet at noon for a 12.30pm start. Entries will be accepted on the day.