Professional Daryn Smit was again the match winner for Ramsbottom as they moved to within six points of leaders Burnley with victory against Colne.

In an outstanding all-round display, Smit smashed his way to an unbeaten century and took 5-26 in the 156-run win at Acre Bottom.

The writing was on the wall for the visitors almost from the outset and Ramsbottom reached 50 off the first 10 overs.

Tom Parton notched up an elegant 38, while Brad Fielding (17), Jon Fielding (14), Martin Cropper (12) and Dale Gabriel (11) all contributed. Debutant Tom Parkinson also chipped in with an unbeaten 17 as Ramsbottom cruised to an untroubled 251-7.

Simon Read was quickly into his groove dismissing John Lambert for 10 and professional Thomas Kaber for 23, following a smart catch at the wicket from Tom Parton, as the Ramsbottom bowlers made light work of the Colne attack.

And once Smit got to work, the Colne wickets fell regularly. The pro's five-wicked haul coming from 13 unremittingly tight overs as Colne were bowled out 95 and with 10 overs to spare.