SOUTHEND-based St Aidan’s/ Leigh have won the Essex County Badminton League Men’s Championship at their first attempt.

Promoted last year, Saints strengthened their squad by signing Essex Number one James Anderson and John Masheter, from Leighway, and also Lee Scott from Westcliff.

Former England international Ian Pearson was persuaded out of early retirement to join club regulars Andrew Brunning and Daniel Munro, both of whom have represented Essex Seconds this year.

St. Aidan’s have been able to pick from their strongest ever squad of players and they began their campaign with a match against Frenford, a near London club always in contention in the top flight.

With undefeated duo Anderson and Masheter leading with way Saints started with a great win.

Their next fixture was away to defending champions Trinity.

With Brunning unavailable, Adam Sibley came into the team.

The heroes this time were Lee Scott and Ian Pearson. Their wonderful maximum getting St Aidan’s home by 5-4.

Home and away victories over both Chelmsford Casuals, and Thurrock, and the defeat of Leighway, left the club needing to win their home fixture with Frenford to take the title.

This was achieved in convincing fashion by seven rubbers to two, meaning St.Aidan’s/Leigh won the Essex Men’s title for the first time in the club’s history.

A club spokesman said St Aidan’s/Leigh were delighted with the achievement.

“We would also like to sincerely thank Dave Hardman, Adrian Watling, Martin Leaver and Alan Christie — all of whom were called upon this season, and helped to maintain momentum,” he added.