NORTH Wilts' mixed team have progressed to the third round of the Egham Trophy – the top inter-club mixed double rinks competition, writes DAVE EATON.

They followed up a fine 92-81win over Malvern Hills with a hard-fought 89-73 success against Bristol in the second round last Sunday.

This was despite drawing on two of the four rinks contested, with their strength in depth coming to the fore.

At home at Westcroft in Chippenham, it was a close affair as Alex Jacobs’ rink collected a count of two on the last end to draw 19-19.

Alongside, Sue Cooke’s foursome gained a last-end single to edge home 21-20.

Away at Ashton Vale, Andy Moore’s rink also drew 21-21, but the stars of the show the foursome of Irene Button, Fizz Mace, Darren Anteney and skip Tom Newman, who ensured overall victory for North Wilts with a match-winning 28-13 success.

The match was tight throughout, with North Wilts laying the foundations when leading 27-13 after only five ends, but only 39-35 at 10.

They moved 21 shots up at 15 ends, leading 70-49 and then held off a Bristol flourish to still lead 79-67 at18 ends before finally winning 89-73.

In the next round, North Wilts face Berkshire side Desborough (Maidenhead), who eliminated Whiteknights (Reading) after they downed Clarrie Dunbar 82-64.

Clarrie are still running in the other mixed team event – the Top Club Trophy.

They beat MidGlos 10-6 on points after winning three of the five disciplines to set up a meeting away in Southampton on Sunday against Atherley.

Both Clarrie men’s and ladies sides will be in action the previous day as they are drawn against Clevedon in the Denny Cup and Yetton Trophy respectively.

North Wilts ladies are also playing in the third round of the Yetton Trophy on Saturday. They face MidGlos (Brockworth, Gloucester).

North Wilts men went out to Clevedon in the Denny Cup but have a second chance in the consolation Denny Plate.

After a first round bye, they face Malvern Hills on Saturday.