SOMERSET ended their losing run in some style when they trounced Warwickshire inside three days much to the delight of everyone who follows the fortunes of the county.

It would be true to say that Tom Abell’s boys bossed almost every season of the match, perhaps with the exception of a slight wobble by the lower middle order.

Somerset have for a long while been known affectionately as the Cidermen so perhaps it was appropriate that their first championship victory of the 2022 campaign all but coincided with the first blossom in the cider apple orchards.

There was so much to cheer about in this victory- Matt Renshaw’s first century since returning to county after his previous stay in 2018. Tom Lammonby reinforced his position as opener with the Aussie contributing 56 to a first wicket stand of 137.

Renshaw then shared a partnership of 112 with captain Tom, who went onto make 70.

Another very pleasing sight was that of Tom Banton continuing to develop his red ball game with a patient 57 from 113 balls from his stay of more than two and half hours at the crease. Whilst we all love the thrill of Banton’s array of shots in one day cricket, this innings proved just how hard he has worked on his four day skills.

And if that wasn't enough Somerset’s last three batters added 84 runs, with the last wicket pair of Jacks- Brooks and Leach putting on 41.

Having posted 458 all Somerset needed was to take 20 wickets- which they duly did. In the Warwickshire first innings of 209 there were three wickets for Josh Davey, and two each for Craig Overton and the returning Lewis Gregory.

With a deficit of 259 captain Tom enforced the follow on, a move which gained support from the vast majority of supporters and it wasn’t long before the visitors were under the cosh.as they slipped to 21 for three.

There were a few pockets of resistance but Jack Brooks who probably wouldn’t have played had Peter Siddle been fit, showed despite being in his late 30s he still has a great deal to offer Somerset as he reduced Warwickshire from 115 for five to 121 for eight in a three over spell.

From that there was no way back and Warwickshire were all out for 167, Brooke ending with four for 44 from his 16 overs, while there were two for Leach and two for Overton.

On Saturday evening many a glass of cider was enjoyed in celebration across Somerset and the west country-- the season has now begun!