GREENMOUNT batsman Tom Heaton enjoyed a bitter-sweet day for Lancashire Under-17s in the Royal London One-day Cup final after scoring a century but ending up on the losing side.

Heaton, aged 17, took centre stage in the Red Rose innings at Kibworth CC, Leicestershire, on Sunday, making 118 as they finished on 259-5.

But opponents Middlesex chased down the target, winning the match with a six from the penultimate ball.

Despite the disappointing result, it was a proud day for grandad John Heaton, who is heavily involved with the Lancashire youth set-up.

“It was totally nerve-wracking,” he said. “I have played cricket to a decent standard and been involved in coaching and managing youth cricket, but that was one of the hardest days ever.

“I was just sat there watching with all my fingers crossed and Tom did the business – brilliant.

“It was his maiden century for Lancashire at any level, and he has done it on the biggest stage.”

Heaton was one of three former Woodhey High School pupils in the side, along with Leigh bowler Lewis Dove, who took 2-38, and Ramsbottom’s Brad Fielding.