ASHTON-on-Mersey lost a high scoring encounter against Barrow by 11 runs as the season came to a close at The Beets.

Heavy showers meant a delayed start and a reduced overs match on yet another excellent Ashton batting track.

Choosing to bat first Ashton attacked from the off with Alex O’Gara leading the way with a fine century at better than a run a ball.

Ably supported by Lee Brooks with an unbeaten 37, O’Gara’s 105 took Ashton to 219 as the bowlers toiled to find anything form the pitch.

In reply the Barrow batsmen returned the favour with Reid (80) and Parks (91) compiling a classy 146-run third wicket partnership to take the game away from the home side.

Despite a late wobble Barrow managed to get over the finish line.

Ashton can look back on a fine season finishing third again in the league table and with plans in place to ensure their promotion to the County League in the near future.

The Ashton second team celebrated their second consecutive league title bringing back a win from relegated Ashley.