Ledbury, led by Matt Williams, continued their recent good Midlands Three (West) form with a battling win over Birmingham-based side Camp Hill.

LEDBURY 1st XV 20pts, CAMP HILL 14pts

Prior to this game, a minute's silence was observed in memory of skipper Matt Williams' father, who sadly died earlier in the week.

Once again Ledbury were without influential centre Russ Putland, but made a good start playing into a strong wind. Rob Collins as ever was sniping away and Darren Lynch was his usual probing self.

After 10 minutes Camp Hill started using the conditions to their advantage and for 25 minutes pinned Ledbury in their own 22. As ever, tough-tackling flanker James Handley, his back row colleague Matt Williams and front rows Tara Barnett, Chris Kitching and Shaun Nash all relishing their defensive duties. Camp Hill continued their onslaught, but locks Simon Christian and old war horse Allen Dixon kept them at bay making vital tackles.

With five minutes of the first half left Camp Hill managed to score in the corner following good work from their backs, the try being converted to give the visitors a 7-0 lead.

From the kick off Ledbury managed to attack the Camp Hill line and created a try right on the whistle, thanks to Rob Collins nifty footwork. Pete Elkington slotted the conversion to leave the score 7-7 at half time.

Ledbury began the second half with vigour and their superior pack started to dominate the tight. Following more good work, the pack went over for a push over try, grounded by Denver Rollings.

With the conversion being missed Ledbury had a quiet spell during which they conceded a try to go behind 14-12.

Ledbury then came roaring back with skipper Matt Williams leading the way, the lead being regained after Pete Elkington slotted over a penalty. With the score at 15-14 the game ebbed and flowed with elusive winger Lee Douglas and Kieram Hallam both making good breaks, but it came down to leading scorer Tom Green to power his way over to make it 20-14 to Ledbury with three minutes left to go.

Camp Hill tried to create a winning score, but with Pete Elkington, Tom Isles, Rob Collins and hardened flanker James Handley at their defensive best, Ledbury held on comfortably.

Ledbury's next home game is on February 14 against Keresley, kick-off 2.30pm,

A large crowd would be appreciated and before the match there will be a vice-president's lunch, contact Geoff Fletcher (01531) 631788 or Elliot Thomas 0777 9788993 for details.