A PRIMARY school cricket team narrowly missed out on becoming northern champions – but the team is still proud of their achievement.

Bedale Church of England Primary School year six team fell at the final hurdle at the National Northern Kwik Cricket tournament at Harrogate Cricket Club.

After a nine-run victory against Cheshire county champions, Saughall All Saints, they faced North Wales champs, St Peter’s Primary School from Wrexham.

Teacher and cricket coach Matthew Hartley-Haw said: “Despite a solid bowling display, Bedale failed to chase down their target as their opponents progressed.

“The talented Welsh side went on to lift the trophy at the end of the day, cheered on by the Bedale players who were glad to see they had at least been defeated by the northern champions.

“I am really proud of them because they have improved so much.

“Many of them hadn’t played cricket before a couple of years ago but now play for Masham or Bedale clubs.

“They were very gracious in their loss too and that was pleasing to see.”

This season the team has become Bedale Cluster Champions, Richmondshire Champions, North Yorkshire silver medallists and Yorkshire County bronze medallists.

Kwik cricket is a version of cricket with eight on each side, and players bat in pairs and play all positions.