FOR the first time in over 20 years, Ledbury RFC earned promotion from Midlands 3 West (South) as they secured the title following a 41-36 win over Manor Park.

The result, coupled with Old Leamingtonians' defeat to Coventry Welsh, meant that with two games to go, Ledbury cannot be caught and sparked jubilant scenes following the full-time whistle.

Ledbury started the weekend five points ahead of OL's in the league standings with three games left and knew another win would put them one step closer to the title.

They came up against a tough prospect in Manor Park, who weren't to be taken lightly but Ledbury started in the best possible fashion as they scored almost straight from the kick-off thanks to Lewis Ballinger.

Jamie Rayfield added the conversion and a penalty minutes later to open up an early 0-10 lead before the hosts responded with a try of their own.

Ballinger had his second of the afternoon after a strong scrum in the Park half and it became 22-5 when Tom Assal ran in under the posts.

On the stroke of half-time the 14th try bonus-point of the season was secured as a solid set-piece provided Ben Mason to dart down the blindside to score in the corner.

Park reduced the gap after the break but Tom Manning responded to give Ledbury a 34-12 lead.

Another pick and go try saw Park get their third and then a fourth as the gap was cut to just eight points at 26-34.

Ed Bennion got his customary try to calm the nerves before a late rally from Manor Park once more made it nervy for the visitors but they held on to secure the win and with it, the title.