Sussex champions Durrington High just missed out on a national finals spot after finishing third in the South East England Championships at Roedean.

In wet and windy conditions, Durrington beat the City of London School, Croydon High and eventual winners Lady Eleanor Hollis.

Two draws against Imberhorne (East Grinstead) and Maidstone Grammar followed. They suffered their only defeat against St Catherines (Surrey) before victory over Kent champions Simon Langton (Canterbury).

Durrington PE teacher Freda Bussey said: "I was overjoyed with our performance and extremely proud of the way they played in difficult conditions.

"We arrived wondering whether we would be overshadowed by better teams but ended up disappointed not to be going through to the national finals.

"The school and team wish to extend special thanks to Tina Price who has coached many of the players at both West Park Middle School and Durrington."

Durrington: Ashleigh Geer, Emma Yates, Kim Lloyd, Toby Makama, Lizzie Wolstenholme (capt), Alice Alden, Laura Bridgewater, Jo Price, Zoe Bridgewater.