GOATACRE made a spectacular start to life back in the Gloucester and Wiltshire League Division Two with a resounding 251-run victory over local rivals Purton.

The home side won the toss and a fine opening partnership of 139 in 18 overs from Rob Turner and Kevin Iles laid the foundations for victory.

Turner finished as his side's top scorer on 94, while Iles weighed in with a handy 37.

Andrew Donegan and Pete Turner carried on the good work with 39 and 22 respectively, while Adam Iles hit an unbeaten 63 as Goatacre closed on 304 for six.

Dean Miles proved Purton's most effective bowler with two for 32 from six overs, while Rob Preddy took two wickets for 62.

Purton made just 53 all out in reply, with Pete Turner grabbing the first four wickets for 30 runs. Turner's spell gave Goatacre the upper hand and two wickets apiece from Rhan Heer, Kevin Iles and Adam Iles completed their triumph.

Heer finished with figures of two for nought from 3.3 overs, with Adam Iles conceding just four runs from his 18 deliveries.