REIGNING champions Faringdon Baptist Church retained their trophy in the ninth annual United Churches Six-a-Side Cricket Cup.

The event, involving nine teams from the Swindon area, was contested at the United Churches Cricket Club ground at Sevenhampton.

After a round robin tournament, where each team played three full games of three eight-ball overs each, the top two teams met in the final.

Faringdon managed to overcome Upper Stratton Baptist Church in the final to raise the trophy.

David Martin, club secretary of United Churches CC, was keen to stress that the event was about more than just cricket.

He said: "Through this, we look to strengthen our relationship with the other churches taking part."

Little touches such as batsmen walking on to music, and a PA system providing commentary helped to create a party atmosphere.

Awards were presented at the end of the tournament for the best performances.

The batting award went to Adam Isles of St Joseph's Roman Catholic School, the bowling award was picked up by Faringdon's Dominic Bullock, while the fielding award went to Steve Painter of Abbey Meads.

The champagne moment of the tournament was a 50, hit by Faringdon batsman Senthil Muniyasamy, an impressive achievement considering most teams' totals only averaged 45.

"Cricket like this helps people back into the game," said Martin.

"Whether they have stopped because of work or family commitments, we help them back into it."

The event will run for the 10th year next Mayday, but in the meantime, United Churches CC are encouraging people who wish to take up the sport again to come along to some of their net practice sessions.

Anyone interested in further details should contact David Martin on 01793 770171.