Chorley’s championship challenge faltered again when they were beaten by rock-bottom Lancaster at Windsor Park.

The home total of 180-7 was heavily dependent on an unbeaten 106 from professional Chris Hartley, the next highest contribution coming from skipper Jack Catterall with 16.

The score was Hartley’s first ton for Chorley – but they are now without a win in five matches and never looked like prising out the Lancaster batsmen on an easy-paced track.

An untroubled second-wicket partnership by Michael Stevens (38) and captain Tim Barry, who finished with 93 not out, laid the foundation for the visitors’ six wicket win as they reached 183-4 with an over to spare.

Bill Smith was Chorley’s most economical and successful bowler with 2-49.