ASTLEY & Tyldesley Miners Welfare-CTA Direct Cycle Speedway nudged one step nearer to winning the Northern Junior League title after their match at Stockport on Sunday.

Although finishing second to nearest challengers Bury on the day, A & T remain top of the table albeit with their lead cut to just 0.5 point!

It all promises to be a grandstand finish in the final Round 7 match at Astley & Tyldesley on September 22 with the winner of the Astley & Tyldesley v Bury clash guaranteed the league title.

Beaten twice

As is usual this year, A & T had riders missing, while Bury fielded a greater number to win convincingly on the day. Best for Team Green were Damien Hack and Marvin Kinlock, both beaten just twice in their respective categories. Good support came from the rest of the team.

Becky Heslop extended her lead in the Northern U-13 Grand Prix series, with team mate John Nuttall moving into second place, ahead of team mates Rob Longworth and Chris Heslop.

With A & T's seniors once again conspicuous by their absence, they fielded a team of juniors and were hammered in the Northern Senior Fours League match. Skipper Damien Hack was best for A & T with a spirited performance from Marvin Kinlock.

John Nuttall and Becky Heslop were Astley & Tyldesley's two entrants in the British U-13 Individual Championships at Stoke on Saturday.

Becky qualified for the Final and recorded a creditable nine points to finish in 12th place. Wednesfield's Scott Doherty won the title.

On Sunday, Astley & Tyldesley are at home to Sheffield in a Midlands-North League Division Two match. First race is at 2pm. Spectators are always welcome to watch at the track at the Astley & Tyldesley Miners' Welfare Club, Meanley Road, Gin Pit, Astley. Admission and car parking are free.