LEDBURY were left to rue eight dropped catches as they slumped to a disappointing 137-run defeat at local rivals Canon Frome in Marches League Division Two.

The home team batted first and piled up an imposing total of 273-5 with Pete Richards (95) and Tom Roberts (77) the tormentors in chief as they took advantage of Ledbury’s fielding lapses.

Amongst the gloom of a poor display however Emily Arlott bowled well to claim 2-37 from 10 overs.

Apart from a belligerent and defiant 53 from Paul Andrews no other batsman got going as Ledbury slipped to 136 all out.

They will look to bounce back when they host Glangrwyney on Saturday (1pm).

Meanwhile, Ledbury seconds continued their good start to their Division Three campaign with a six-wicket win over Moccas.

The visitors batted first but were soon under pressure with Ledbury opening bowlers Simon Watkins and Vicky Evans bowling tightly.

The pressure told when Watkins removed Colin Prothero and it was not long before Evans got her reward when she bowled the dangerous Tom Price.

John Davies and Alan Harris did rally for the away side as they both scored 23.

But Evans accounted for Harris and Steve Large, making his first appearance of the season, claimed the important wicket of Davies thanks to a smart catch by Ledbury skipper Chris Ritchie.

With Moccas four down Chris Ritchie turned to the spin of Harry Eales and it immediately paid dividends.

Zac Webb contributed a breezy 27, but after that Eales (3-12) and Large (3-27) claimed three wickets apiece as Moccas were all out for 113.

Ledbury could not have asked for a better start in reply as openers Phil Caffull and Rob Yeoman posted a stand of 80 for the first wicket.

Caffull rode his luck at times but he took advantage as he brought up his half century unfurling some classic shots down the ground before falling for a splendid 56.

Yeoman stayed solid and despite Brandon Caffull and Maurice Embrey falling cheaply he saw Ledbury to the brink of victory before being caught for a composed 37.

It was left to Ledbury captain Ritchie and Watkins to see their side to victory as they chased down the Moccas total for the loss of four wickets in the 34th over, claiming 23 points in the process.

Ledbury seconds visit Bartestree and Lugwardine thirds on Saturday (1pm).