National winners Shropshire are now the champions of the British Isles

Shropshire's Chris and Alan Williams, Warwick France and Chris Shakeshaft led England to victory in the fours at the British Isles Short Mat Championships.

The quartet were unbeaten in the round-robin event, with their only draw coming against runners up Wales.

"It's something we've aimed for over the past three years, and to climb that mountain is fantastic," captain Chris Williams told BBC Radio Shropshire.

"Some say this is Mickey Mouse bowls, but it takes real skill and practice."

At 11-11 in their final match of the Isle of Man held event against Wales, Williams tactically declined to play his last ball as England had won enough points in the previous games to lift the trophy.

"I'm particularly pleased for Chris, as he's very consistent and without doubt one of the best players around," said England manager Keith Smith.

"But I'm also pleased for the whole team, as there's a tremendous bond between the four of them.

"It's been a long road for them. They've been playing together for as long as I can remember, and they've reached the top eventually not just with their skill at the game, but through guts and determination."

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