PETE Richards starred with bat and ball as Swanage opened their Dorset Premier League campaign with a convincing five-wicket win over promoted Shroton.

Richards claimed four for 21 as Swanage dismissed the County Division One champions for 181, their total boosted by no fewer than 30 extras.

And the all-rounder shared an unbeaten stand of 79 with Rob Hatchard as the visitors eased home with more than four overs in hand.

Swanage skipper Ryan Norman said: “I was really pleased with our start to the season against the leagues new boys.

“After a tough start, we showed our class to restrict them to a below-par score, thanks to some superb bowling from Pete Richards and a good team fielding performance.

“After the loss of some early wickets, the strength in depth our batting saw us home.

“Again, Pete Richards was good but a resilient innings from Rob Hatchard was key.

“Hopefully, we can maintain these standards next week at Day’s Park against Poole Town.”

Richards received solid support from Norman (2-42), Hatchard (1-42), Mike Nash (1-24) and Mike Wells (1-13) as the rest of the wickets were shared around.

Matt Thomas (31) and Ben Baczala (17) both made starts as Swanage set about chasing down their victory target.

And after both had departed, Norman (28) maintained the momentum.

Richards (46) and Hatchard (35) came together with the score on 105 and steered Swanage past the winning post.