YWCA Bury finished runners-up in the North West Championship after a 55-25 victory over Northwich in the final game of the season.

A tentative start did not deter the Bury side from securing a three-goal lead by the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, a solid defensive unit and accurate shooting allowed the team to expand their lead to 11 goals by half time.

The side continued to work hard in the second half, capitalising on interceptions and dominating the centre court to provide a fantastic finish to a strong and fruitful season.

Goalkeeper Ella Hewitt and goal attack Imogen Campbell were jointly named player of the match after sterling displays in the defensive and attacking circles, respectively.

The Championship side put in a consistent display throughout and will be delighted with their season.

But they are unable to move up to the NW Premiership after the first team failed to achieve promotion, with the two not allowed to compete in the same league.

Bury’s senior side battled hard to claw their way into promotion contention following a poor start to their campaign.

They eventually finished third, just missing out on the top two and a place in the National League play-offs. Some key youth players stepped up during the campaign, and with the squad coming together to deliver some exciting netball, they could well have been competitive in the play-offs.

Sarah Ramwell, Clare Morley, Lois Pearson and Natalie Kerrigan were the stand-out performers.