IRELAND have won their fourth consecutive international team title at the British Isles Short Mat Bowls Championships at Bodelwyddan Castle, North Wales. The four Irish rinks, led by Dessie Hamilton, Liam McHugh, Alan Leonard and Kieran Campbell, all remained undefeated as the team gained convincing victories over Wales, Scotland and England.

The opening 75-16 win over Wales, who won their two other encounters to finish as runners-up, was particularly impressive, while Scotland (51-23) and England (51-30) were subsequently dismissed in similar fashion.

There was also Irish success in the triples event as Colum, James and Liam McHugh of the Cookstown Paroch club won all three of their matches.

Craig Jones of Wales won the singles event despite losing to Ireland's John R Graham, who finished second. The Irish pairs and fours competitors also earned second places.