BOURNEMOUTH secured the South West Premier title and a return to the fourth tier of English rugby after a commanding 41-10 bonus-point victory over Exmouth.

Lions’ success at Chapel Gate meant they could no longer be caught by second-place Barnstaple, despite their nearest rivals winning 21-12 at home to Ivybridge.

Will Croker’s men ran in five tries in total on Saturday, with Sam Hardcastle (2), Ben Roberts, Scott Chislett and Joe Rees all crossing the whitewash.

Victory was Lions’ 21st from 22 games this season and marked 519 days since they were last beaten on their own turf.

Croker’s champions, who have four games remaining this campaign, visit Ivybridge on Saturday, March 23.