Oxfordshire under 17s went top of the Shires League with a handsome 13-7 victory over nearest rivals Dorset at Bartholemew School, Eynsham.

Both teams were unbeaten, so it was a key match to ensure qualification for the play-offs .

The hosts got off to a flying start with a 3-1 win in the mixed doubles.

The boys split the difference in the singles, thanks to wins from Alex Cook (Chinnor) and Faringdon’s Ben Procter.

Oxon girls triumphed 3-1, thanks to Louise Atkins (Drayton), Natalia Mitchell (Woodstock) and Bronwynn Ready (Long Wittenham), all of whom won in straight games.

Indeed, Atkins, Mitchell and ready were unbeaten throughout the match.

The doubles were vital and the girls again managed another 3-1 success, again the victories all coming in two ends.

The boys doubles were shared leaving Oxon almost guaranteed place in the play-offs with one match remaining, at home against Bucks on January 31.