LEDBURY began their season in scintillating fashion by thrashing Droitwich 54-0 in the first game of the new season.

Having enjoyed a successful summer of friendly matches, Ledbury came into the clash full of confidence and it was a ruthless performance against a Droitwich side that were relegated from a level above last season.

It took ten minutes for the away side to open their account as scrum half Iolo Bubb whipped a quick ball out to Arron Almond who crashed over from 10 yards, with Jamie Rayfield adding the two points.

Despite territorial dominance, Ledbury were making too many mistakes and falling off tackles and strong running by the Droitwich number 8 almost led to a breakaway try.

But nerves were settled when Ed Bennion, in a trademark break, fed George Wallin for try number two, again converted by Rayfield.

Only a try-saving tackle by Arthur Harris prevented the home team from replying and with minutes to go before halftime, Bennion picked up the ball from the base of a ruck and drove over to score with three defenders on his back. The conversion saw Ledbury leading 21 - 0 at the break.

Ben Mason danced around the referee to touch down for the bonus-point score and Cam Smith followed suit with a try in the corner for a 35-0 lead.

Droitwich were tiring under the hot sun and Ledbury were making hay. Mason added a second try before Almond and Ed Wallin received yellow cards for high tackles.

Down to 13 men, Ledbury held out to keep a tired Droitwich scoreless and with minutes to go, Bennion powered over for two more tries to take his individual tally to four and seal a convincing victory.