FAIRFORD romped to a four-wicket win over Frampton-on-Severn in their Readers Gloucestershire County Cricket League Division One clash an ample reward for their groundstaff, who had worked furiously to get the ground prepared.

Fielding first Town, Newport and Bird soon exploited the conditions.

Bird swung the ball all through his 12-over spell clean bowling four batters on his way to a season-best 5-32.

Having the visitors 70-6 after 24 overs, Town sensed an early tea, but Barnfield's 32 marshalled the tail and enabled Frampton to reach 151-9.

In reply, Fairford made another solid start, reaching 24 before losing Gray.

Townsend then played the innings of the day, showing a full range of shots against a useful bowling side in reaching 51.

His loss and that of a further three wickets gave Frampton brief hope.

But opener Leadbeater allayed any fears with a measured innings, although he fell just short of a deserved 50, but lusty hitting and hard running from Bullock and Cook sealed the win.

Town will look to carry their recent winning run forward to Newent this weekend.