It had not been plain sailing with 11 points required, and despite knocks of 29 by Kallum Ward and 34 by Tom Greaves, Reed had slipped to 88-5 and a collapse that would have jeopardised even their promotion looked a possibility. However, led by Sean Tidey (34) and supported by Mitchell Cooper (19), Karl Ward (17), Dave Shagam (15) and Sam Edkins (12) the lead was extended to 190, amassing 6 precious bonus points.

Redbourn, who also had hopes of promotion depending on Luton’s result, proved to be obdurate opposition. Harry Cobb (82) led the way , although he was gifted several lives and despite frantic appeals for leg before, Connor Yorath (38) and William Hales (32*) looked like thwarting Reed’s title hopes. Reed though chipped away as Edkins, Greaves, Ed Garrott and Will Archer each claimed a wicket until Heslam made the vital breakthrough with just 13 needed.

When news finally came that Luton had lost 3 late wickets to lose by 12 runs, both sides could celebrate immediate promotion back to the Championship after a very tightly fought league with the lead changing hands throughout the season. Indeed a mere 18 points separated the top five at the end ( Luton eventually finishing fifth!). Rarely has a 5 wicket defeat been so wildly celebrated – well done the First XI !