SYDNEY Street claimed the glory of the Great Harwood and District Bowling League’s Leonard Whittaker Cup as they edged past Mercer Park to take the crown.

The Division One strugglers had just enough to see off the Division Two promotion hopefuls to take the trophy after an excellent contest that could have gone either way.

Craig Ramell got Mercer Park off to the perfect start as he brushed Franny Franks aside 21-3 in the opening match of the showdown.

But John Rigg restored parity in some style with a 21-8 victory over Lynne Nuttall to level matters.

Mark Saulle then put Sydney Street’s noses in front with a 21-10 win over Harry Hargreaves – and there was clear daylight between the teams when Bob Fletcher saw off Alan Whitehead 21-15.

However, the impressive Lee Ramell pegged Sydney Street back when he took a battle with Tony Andrews 21-16 and Leighton Whitehead also shone to make it all to play for as he beat John Freeman 21-15 in another contest that could have gone either way.

But the tide really turned in favour of Sydney Street when Andrew Breckell took to the green against Laurence Miller.

Breckell was irresistable as he strolled to a stunning 21-2 win to put his side into the box seat.

Going into the final end it meant Tom Andrews was in a healthy position with a 10-end advantage.

And he saw off Jack Cunningham 21-18 to ensure the silverware headed to Sydney Street.

Meanwhile in the league Great Harwood A booked an immediate return to Division One.

They ensured promotion thanks to a win over Mercer Park. East Lancashire and Sabden Red have also confirmed their promotion from Division Three - but they are still battling to see which team will go up as champions.

Division Four is much more straightforward.

Oakhill have been confirmed as runners-up behind Lower Darwen B, who won the title last month.

Burnley Road B and Tinker and Budget are also celebrating promotion in the Local Herald Hyndburn and District Bowling League.

Burnley Road B have sealed promotion from Division Three, while Tinker and Budget waved farewell to Division Four thanks to their latest win and can start planning for life in Division Three next season.

But Whalley A have lost their battle against relegation from Division One.

They have found the going tough in their first season in the top flight and their latest defeat saw them demoted at the first time of asking.