BASINGSTOKE Town Spades increased their lead at the top of Whitchurch Bowls League to five-and-a-half points by demolishing already-relegated Marnell Blues 62-33.

Having played one more game it is unlikely that Kingsclere Quails will have any chance of catching the leaders as they lost 48-44 to Andover B.

Howard Park’s relegation worries were not eased as they were beaten 60-40 by Whitchurch Yellows and St Mary Bourne gave themselves a chance of staying in the top flight with a thrilling 49-48 win over Littleton Leopards.

In Division Two, Old Basing Cavaliers are almost certain of playing in the top flight next year after they beat Andover A 56-39, as are Whitchurch Blacks after seeing off Alton Social 51-43.

Town’s Diamonds are now well off the pace in third having played more matches and they lost this week against Hook Hares (60-36). The only other match in the division saw Alton beat St Mary Bourne Eagles 61-49.

Hyde Abbey B head Division Three after beating bottom side Friary 57-41 and Littleton Lemurs stay in second.

Andover C gave themselves a chance of promotion when they beat Oakley C 51-47. Hook Foxes could have been in the mix, but failed to beat Town’s Jokers, losing 47-45.

Kingsclere Partridges won 47-45 at struggling Howard Park C.

In Division Four, Old Basing Roundheads are already promoted and it is a case of who will join them out of Whitchurch Blues and Marnell Greens.

Blues had a bye, but the Greens failed to capitalise, losing 55-34 to Roundheads.

Howard Park B beat Kingsclere Pheasants 65-45, while Thornycroft enjoyed a 46-41 success over St Mary Bourne Merlins. Oakley D and Old Basing Royalists drew 55-55.