SOUTHEND Bowls Club have been crowned champions of Group Six of the Essex League just one year after gaining promotion into the top division.

After gaining promotion to the A League in 2013, the club were just hoping their A team would survive relegation this year.

However, after a strong start and excellent finish, taking 18 points from a possible 24, Southend won the title by two points ahead of nearest challengers, Essex County. This result is a fantastic achievement for a club who were in the C league just two years ago.

The club are already looking at strengthening their team for next year and the green at the club is being relaid at end of September.

Team Members: Adam Miller (captain), Phil Brandon, Duncan Barton, Bobby Stewart, Peter Ramsey, Lewis Miller, Alan Brett, Graham Evans, John Betton, Kevin Glover, Jim Marshall, Harry Warren and Chris Down.