ALL PICTURES BY SEANA HUGHES

WET weather left Colchester and East Essex kicking their heels following the cancellation of their Shepherd Neame Essex League clash at Gidea Park and Romford.

The sides had been due to meet in a first XI division one contest, on Saturday.

However, miserable weather meant no play was possible and both sides were awarded six points.

Colchester remain top of the table - two points above Fives and Heronians - and will hope to return to action when Harold Wood visit on Saturday.

Play was possible in the second XI division one contest between Colchester and Buckhurst Hill, at Castle Park.

This match was part of the club's eagerly-awaited Beer and Cider Festival.

Having been put into bat, Colchester made 221 for three, thanks to sizeable contributions from Oliver Hills (105 not out) and Andrew Kennedy (89 not out).

Buckhurst Hill were then 154 for six after 25 overs when the heavens opened and play was halted. The visitors won on run-rate, by four wickets.

The Beer and Cider Festival, which featured entertainment, food and drink, started on Thursday with a men’s T20 game as Colchester faced Mistley.

The Swans batted first and made 128 for nine, with the standout bowler being George Offord (four wickets for ten runs in four overs).

Colchester were 49 for no loss after five overs when thunder and lightning struck and the match was abandoned due to poor light.

On Friday, Colchester men’s first team faced a Gents of Essex side and it was the visitors who won by five wickets, having dismissed their hosts for 185.

Captain Johnny Bassett-Graham top-scored with 60.

The Gents of Essex reached their target in the 26th over, despite a couple of wickets for Oscar Dias.