PAIGNTON were three-run losers at Sidmouth in a last-day thriller between two sides with the freedom to play without pressure.

Paignton were already assured of runners-up spot behind champs Heathcoat and Sidmouth could finish no lower than fourth.

Ales Barrow rapped 111 at the top of the order for Sidmouth, who made 273 for eight in a game reduced to 44 overs a side by bad weather.

Barrow finished the season with three tons and nine half-centuries from 18 trips to the crease that yielded 1,112 Premier runs at an average of 61.78.

An Anthony Alleyne ton meant Paignton reached the last over needing 10 win, scored 16 runs and lost two wickets, which left them four runs short of victory.

Paignton returned to the Premier Division this season as A Division champions with Torquay as their runners-up. While Paignton have prospered, Torquay are going straight back down again.

George Benton, Paignton’s captain, said: “It's been a brilliant year and almost topped off with a great win. Unfortunately we just fell short. 

“The team has given everything this year and the club is going in the right direction. 

“The aim was top-four and we achieved that. We are now setting bigger goals for the club and individuals.”

Barrow – 11 fours, two sixes, 101 balls – was second out for Sidmouth at 219. 

Luke Bess (81) was his companion during a stand of 157 for the second wicket.

Paignton’s stand-out bowler was Luke Medlock, whose five-wicket haul included Bess and the usually prolific Matt Cooke.

Alleyne – 11 fours and four sixes in his 113 off 118 balls – took Paignton to 234 for four in reply. Harry Ward (24), Medlock (33) and Dan Wolf (46) provided the support.

Cole Harford and Mark Orchards were the men out to Sidmouth’s Tom Simmons (3-40) in the dramatic final over.