CARHAMPTON bounced back in style with a dominant 223-run victory over Over Stowey in Division Three of the West Somerset Cricket League.

On a glorious sunny afternoon, skipper Dom Westcott won the toss and elected to bat. Openers Luke Milton and the evergreen Paul Keal shared a 146-run partnership before Keal eventually departed for a classy 48.

New batter Sam Price came to the crease to continue his excellent form from last season. Milton hit 114 before finally departing, his runs coming off 99 balls with 11 fours and three 6s after which the hard-hitting middle order led by Price who remained unbeaten on 68 as the visitors ended their 40 overs on 275 for 5.

Pick of the home bowlers were Lewis Bond with 2 for 32 and Harley Rich with 2 for 77.

Buoyed by an excellent tea, things got even better afterwards as Carhampton legend Matt Long rolled back the years with a devastating spell of bowling, beating the bat repeatedly; he finished with outstanding figures of 5 for 10 and tore through the Over Stowey top order.

At the other end, new overseas signing Ben Allerton impressed on debut, steaming in with genuine pace and energy to claim one for 28 during a lively opening spell.

This match saw the welcome return of Justin Harris, back playing for CCC after a 20-year hiatus who claimed a wicket along with Richard Clements, while the club chairman, Adam Magil, made a sharp stumping.

Over Stowey were eventually bundled out for just 54 in the 19th over, sealing a huge win for Carhampton.

Player of the match was given to Ben Allerton who took a wicket and brought energy, pace, and plenty of excitement to the Carhampton ranks.