Whitchurch Cricket Club chairman Rod Jones says the planning has already started for their return to the Birmingham League after sealing the Shropshire Premier Division on Saturday.

Alex Huxley’s men thrashed St Georges at Heath Road to seal the title – and promotion – on Saturday and lifted the trophy in front of their home fans.

And while Jones insists Whitchurch were given a tough test at this level, it was important for them to bounce back at the first attempt.

“It was vital to get back to where we wanted to be – a higher level,” said Rod.

“That has its own pitfalls obviously because we then need to try to strengthen for next year.

“But the good thing about it as that we made it back at the first attempt.

“We have consistently shown we’re above the level by being top for most of the season, but we’ve had some tough games.

“We didn’t know what to expect as it’s been a while since we were at this level.

“We made the decision to get local lads to play for us and they did – most of them are from Whitchurch and surrounding areas, save for one or two.

“We’ll be meeting in the next few weeks about going forward and hopefully we can entice one or two players we’re looking at to the club.”

Jones reserved special praise for skipper Alex Huxley for guiding them to the title, amassing more than 500 runs for the year.

He added: “Alex has delivered. He’s got a cool head in these tight situations and he’s led from the front.

“He’s had to have a few words at various times, which he has, but we’re really pleased with him.”

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