There was double delight for Settle’s teams on Saturday as the firsts avenged the previous week’s cup defeat, and the seconds knocked Division Two leaders Oswaldtwistle off their perch.

The welcome return of the club’s talented rugby players and footballers certainly made a big difference and they contributed fully to the successes.

At Cherry Tree, opener Tom Davidson, back after his stint with Wharfedale Rugby Club, put the firsts on track with a rousing 35, while pro Imran Khalid hit 44. Jack Harrison (12) continued his good form and wicketkeeper David Worthington hit 14 down the order.

But it was skipper Eddy Read who dominated the closing overs with a responsible knock of 35 as Settle closed on 178 all out.

Overseas player Khalid was the star turn in reply, claiming a haul of 5-46 with his spin bowling.

He received good support from Will Davidson who took 2-37 in a steady spell.

The match went down to the wire as Cherry Tree maintained their run chase.

Read (1-24) and Khalid maintained good economy rates and kept the hosts at bay to claim victory for Settle by just six runs.

The seconds pulled off a comprehensive win at Marshfield as Oswaldtwistle were skittled out for 65. Spinner Jason Paul bagged 5-14, and Josh Mullinder took 3-26 and two catches.

Mullinder then completed a fine all-round performance with 26 runs, but it was William Booth who caught the eye, striking five fours in his unbeaten 26 as Settle won in 17 overs.

This weekend the firsts entertain Euxton while the seconds have fixtures against Whalley and Great Harwood.

Leaders Earby made it four wins from four games with an 82-run victory at Salesbury. Chris Walton gave their innings a sound start with a patient 49 but the real impetus came from Andrew Jaggers (65) and Richard Craddock (35) as a total of 224-7 was achieved.

Jaggers quickened the tempo at just the right time by striking a six and seven fours, while Craddock played with good sense to ensure a challenging total was posted.

Salesbury were bowled out for 142 with new recruit Lee Parkinson proving the most successful bowler with 4-26. Skipper Craddock (2-36) and pro Dave Crotty (2-33) gave good support.

Last year’s runners up Barnoldswick are getting back into the groove after chasing down Euxton’s 169-9 at Victory Park for the loss of only four wickets.

Matt Nutter (77no) and Shaun Lemon (59) were the chief run makers after South African spinner Louis Delport took 6-75.

Delport’s form will be a source of encouragement for Barnoldswick.