The new champions snatched the crown from holders and great rivals Sir John Bayley, who led the way for much of the remarkable 2024 campaign. Top spot was decided on aggregate for the first time in the division's proud history after both teams chalked up 272 points, including 10-2 home victories in their final fixtures. The aggregate scores across the season's 26 fixtures read +1,213 for Castlefields and +1,104 for Bayley, meaning the former claimed the title by an aggregate of just 109.
The location of the trophy went down to the final game for the second year running but while Bayley celebrated by a single point last year, the trophy destination was Shrewsbury this time around. Castlefields' 11th top flight crown came courtesy of a fine final-day success against very strong opposition in Wrockwardine Wood, the 2022 champions, who themselves carded a fourth-placed finish. Bayley put a chink in the aggregate with their 10-2 win over third-bottom Adderley, but it was not enough.
Castlefields' big winners on the dramatic evening included Jon Palmer's 21-6, Mike Beer's 21-10 and efforts to 11 by Gary Neal and Rich Goddard as the hosts prevailed 247-179. Down the road Bayley were on the way to the same game scoreline against north Shropshire visitors Adderley. Bayley's Scott Simpson (21-4), Stuart Rutter (21-7) and Alex Jones and Scott Harries (both 21-8) chalked up big wins for a 243-160 aggregate.
It was a heartbreaking night for the reigning champions, however, to lose their g.
