Spearman has done well since arriving at Bristol

Gloucestershire ended a disappointing Championship campaign on a high note as Craig Spearman rushed them to victory with an unbeaten century.

The former New Zealand Test batsman hit 20 fours in making 114 not out off only 111 balls as the home side passed their victory target of 170 in just 33.2 overs.

Bottom club Durham began the day on 120 for one but lost wickets at regular intervals, with left-arm spinner Ian Fisher taking four for 67.

Michael Gough top scored with 78, adding only eight runs to his overnight score before edging seamer Jonathan Lewis to wicket-keeper Jack Russell.

Acting captain Brad Hodge (39) put on 51 for the third wicket with Gordon Muchall (29) and Adrian Thorpe (31) shared a half century stand with Ian Pattison (21).

But no-one was able to go on and play a major innings, which would have given them a chance of only their second win of the summer.

Fisher ended the innings with the wicket of Steve Harmison for 15, leaving Ian Hunter unbeaten on 20.

It was then just a question of whether Gloucestershire could beat the clock and earn themselves a day off.

Harmison commanded respect, conceding only 20 from his 11 overs, but Spearman tore into the support bowlers.

Opening partner James Pearson had to retire hurt on 18 after being struck by a delivery from Harmison, but Tim Hancock saw things through with Spearman company to finish on 23 not out.

Gloucestershire: C M Spearman, J A Pearson, T H C Hancock, M G N Windows, M W Alleyne (Capt), A P R Gidman, R C Russell (Wkt), I D Fisher, R J Sillence, J Lewis, A M Smith.

Durham: M A Gough, G J Pratt, B J Hodge (Capt), G J Muchall, A M Thorpe, I Pattison, A Pratt (Wkt), I D Hunter, G D Bridge, A M Davies, S J Harmison.