AFTER the previous week’s washout of the entire Ribblesdale League programme, normal service was resumed for Settle as they demolished third-placed Padiham to maintain their 12-point lead over Read at the top of the Senior Division.

Opening bowlers Eddy Read (4-44) and Simon Tarbox (3-31) tore through the hosts’ line-up, leaving pro Ashen Silva (3-14) to mop up the remainder.

With 41 victims this season, Read is the second-highest amateur wicket-taker in the league, while Tarbox stands top of his club rankings with a bowling average of 11.4 and a remarkable strike rate of one wicket every three overs.

Padiham struggled to 105 all out in 30.1 overs, leaving Silva and overseas amateur Danyl Husbands to knock off the runs.

Opener Husbands made 28 while Silva was unbeaten on 62 at over a run a ball, hammering eight fours and two sixes on the way. Settle’s eight-wicket victory was completed in 22 overs.

Meanwhile, a young Settle II squad was bowled out for 57 by Cherry Tree, though skipper Ben Mitchell hit an entertaining 21 runs.

The reply saw spinner Joseph Handy open the bowling to take 4-22 in an excellent spell, but those were the only visitors’ wickets to fall. Despite this loss, Settle II are still firmly mid-table in Division One.

This Saturday, Settle first team entertain Section A rivals Whalley, while the seconds have a long trek to play Stacksteads first XI. On Sunday, Settle III welcome Craven neighbours Earby in Division Three.