HUNDREDS flocked to Redditch Entaco CC’s Bromsgrove Road home to watch the Tim Ambrose benefit match against a Warwickshire packed with Bears favourites.

Nearly 300 people watched the hosts put up a good fight before losing narrowly.

The Bears made 186 and Redditch hit 155 in reply in their 30 overs.

The match was aiming to raise several thousand pounds for Ambrose’s chosen charities – Mind and the Professional Cricketers’ Association.

Roger Dakin was master of ceremonies as 170 cricket fans enjoyed a meal before the action.

Redditch also defeated Studley in an under-19s match, which was a warm-up for the main event.

Meanwhile, Redditch’s promotion hopes in Worcestershire County League Division Two were boosted after a fine 151 win over Coombs Wood. Rizwan Chaudhry 51, Russell Southwick 48, Greg Chinn 47 were among the runs as they made 285-9.

In reply, Coombs Wood lost early wickets and never recovered as Tom Field (5-39) and Waqas Ali (2-14) did the damage and eventually bowled them out for 134.

With Chaddesley Corbett and Feckenham losing, Redditch increased their lead at the top to 27 points.

They are at home to Bredon on Saturday (1pm start).