BROMSGROVE'S third XI put clear breathing space between themselves and the Worcester County League Division Three drop zone following a 24 run success over third placed Rushwick.

Mark Bilbrough struck 79 while skipper Harry Smith supplied a further 60 as Bromsgrove posted a target of 256 all out.

Rushwick were restricted to 232 all out in response as Max Smith with three for 42, Sam Johnson, who took three for 48, and Tom Downing's three for 36 shared nine wickets between themselves while Rushwick's Paul Wyatt had plundered a defiant 89.

Bromsgrove visit Harborne thirds this Saturday while local rivals Alvechurch and Hopwood entertain neighbours Avoncroft.