RYAN Sandham had a nightmare return to Wilmslow RBL as his side were defeated in Cheshire’s major team bowls competition.

Sandham lost heaviest in a Lloyd Hotel side from Chorlton that was edged out by Northwich’s Castle in Cheshire County Bowling Association’s Brunner Cup final that was hosted by Wilmslow RBL, where he used to be a member.

He fell 21-6 to Ian Howell in the ninth game as the victors, who were the underdogs, finished strongly.

A huge crowd was attracted to the Grove Avenue venue, which was staging the final for the first time, and after a deluge of rain forced a delayed start - and some opening action on top of surface water - the kings proved to be Castle by just five chalks.

Castle captain Steve Morrey said: “It’s a huge achievement, one we’re proud of.”

Result:

Castle 205 Lloyd Hotel 200: Rob Winnington 17-21 Dave Carter; Steve Morrey 21-18 Billy Hibbert; Andy Hamman 9-21 Dave Phillips; Mike Yearsley 21-18 Pete Smith; Kevin Duncalf 21-8 Chris Alderson; Dave O’Brien 18-21 Jamie Bramley; Jason Cornes 11-21 Ben Phillips; Adi Faulkner 10-21 Lee Fletcher; Ian Howell 21-6 Ryan Sandham; Steve Curbishley 21-12 Mike Geraghty; Paul Dooley 21-12 Robbie Hall; Paul Mackie 14-21 Michael McDonnell.