Seaton lost further ground on leaders Bideford and Stoke Gabriel at the top of Division B of the Devon Cricket League, but it was a close-run finish to the game in North Devon.

Braunton’s last pair were together, and there were only four overs left when they passed the 200 needed to win.

Seaton’s batting proved to be an innings of two halves with the top order all making useful runs while those who came later, with the exception of Tim Doulton (17), failed to reach double figures.

Tristan Wakeley (41) top-scored for Seaton but, like Damian Baxter (39), Kai Croft and Jack Dormer, 33 each, he was unable to push on to get past the fifty mark and a big score.

Seaton were 164-2 at one stage before slumping dramatically to lose eight wickets for just thirty-six runs.

The home side were 68-4 after twenty overs with Sam Reddick (28) and Andrew Norman (24) leading the way, but it was a lightning 41 off 25 balls from Jason Raynor that tipped the balance, and when he departed, the last pair, Theo Valeri and Luan Matthews De Menezes, hung on to edge their side over the line.

Kai Croft proved to be the most economical of the Seaton bowlers as he claimed 2-41 from his quota of ten overs.

Arthur Whitby also picked up two wickets and claimed an exceptional run-out.

Seaton overwhelmed Upottery in the East Devon T20 Bash in midweek to win by nine wickets.

Arthur Whitby took 3-26 as Upottery made 168-4 while Seaton knocked off the runs without loss in 15 overs, Tristan Wakeley undefeated on 79 and Jack Dormer on 66.

Archie Trott led the way as Seaton II defeated Axminster CC by six wickets in Division F East.

Trott took 2-24 as Axminster finished on 155-6 and then struck 72 as Seaton replied with 157-4.

Matt Hewer also claimed a half-century with 52.

Seaton III head Division H Central by six points after a commanding 111-run victory over Bovey Tracey IV.

Devon Welsh top scored with an unbeaten 53 at a run a ball as The Pirates hit 215-7 while later Rob Gibson and Jed Pinnock took three wickets apiece as Bovey were dismissed for 104.

This Saturday (July 25), Seaton are at home to Bovey Tracey II.

12.30 p.m. start.

Seaton II travel to Upottery II and Seaton III are away to Budleigh Salterton IV.

Both games commence at 1pm.