Colchester and East Essex have won promotion back to the Shepherd Neame Essex League premier division at the first time of asking.

Ben Stephens' side have won promotion back to the top flight after beating Woodford Wells by six wickets, at Castle Park.

After being put into bat, the visitors made 221 for three in their 52 overs, with Will Rogers making an unbeaten 127.

Colchester initially struggled in reply and found themselves at 95 for four.

But a superb 127-run partnership between Henry Foster (78 not out) and overseas player Cam Hawkins (68 no) helped steer Colchester to victory, which sealed their promotion at the first time of asking.

Colchester have one more game remaining in division one, where they will be hoping to win the title and cap a fine season in style.

For more on Colchester's promotion to the premier division, see the Daily Gazette this week.