Their 111-run success - coupled with a defeat for previous leaders Cuckfield by title rivals Eastbourne and a draw for second-placed Preston Nomads - has seen Priory open up an 11 point advantage in the Premier Division.

Eastbourne, who now lie ominously in second position, and fourth-placed Preston remain favourites for the title as they have two games in hand on Jason Finch's team.

Priory have given themselves a glimmer of hope, however, after rattling up an imposing total of 300-3 off 54 overs at Horntye Park on Saturday.

James Beeny was the star with a superb 148 off 123 balls which included 22 fours. The bulk of his runs were scored in a second wicket partnership of 204 with Richard Young (95 not out) before George Campbell weighed in with 34.

Spinner Michael Glazier then took over by returning impressive figures of 7-87 as Three Bridges were dismissed for 189 off 40.5 overs. Chris Morris claimed 2-36 and Finch 1-18.

Australian all-rounder Michael Shaw provided the only real resistance with a knock of 104 as only three other batsmen reached double figures.

Bexhill have been knocked off the summit in Division Two after losing to main rivals and new leaders Lewes Priory.

Priory totalled 226-7 at The Polegrove thanks to Michael Murray (60) and Andrew Hartridge (51). Bexhill then crashed to 135 all out despite the efforts of Chris Deeprose (53). Ben Walker picked up 5-55.

Sidley compiled a very healthy 250-9 but still lost by four wickets against Steyning in the clash of the basement boys.

Aussie Elliot Bullock was once again Sidley's main scorer with 100, but in reply, Gary Hunt made 101 not out and Bill Buckley 81 as the home side finished on 254-6.