OXFORDSHIRE'S 2nd and 4th teams both suffered 10-5 defeats in their County Championship matches at Iffley Road.

In Division 2D, Oxon 2nd were bolstered by a first appearance this season from Liz Burns, of Frilford, against Dorset 2nd.

Burns won two doubles with Wantage's Alison Ross and a mixed with Paul Casey, but could not save Oxon from defeat.

In Divison 5B, Oxon 4th led Northants 2nd 3-1 after wins from teenagers Colin Campbell (18), Hannah Wilkinson (16) and Alex Lewington (15), but faltered after that.

Oxon over 55s, captained by Shippon's Judy McCairns, lost 8-4 away to Leicester- shire.

WANTAGE are showing signs of being on the comeback trail after beating Abingdon A 5-4 in Division 1 of the Oxford & District Women's League.

The Wantage first pair of Alison Ross and Jackie Ellis won all three rubbers, while second pair Wendy Jones and Wendy Ellis chipped in with the vital two.

In Mixed Division 3, Jeannie Campbell and son Colin as well as second son Jon with Sharon Maison guided The Park B to a 7-2 win over Gosford Hill C.

In Men's Division 3, Gosford Hill B relied upon Ian Whitehead with Adam King as well as David Croft with Martin Kibble as they beat Didcot Power B 7-2.

Power B also lost 8-1 to Oxford University.

EVENLODE A kept hold of their Division 1 lead in the Wallingford and District League with a comfortable 8-1 win against Abingdon B.