Hastings and Bexhill played their best rugby of the season to hand Sussex One leaders Horsham a 31-12 defeat.

The result puts H&B into the thick of the title race and allows Heathfield to take over top spot in what is looking a very competitive division.

Paul Sandeman piled up 16 points as Hastings controlled proceedings, scoring a try, four conversions and a penalty. Seb Halligan, Warwick Benson and Andy Hitch also got over, with lock Martin Sheppard named Hastings' man-of-the-match.

Richard Billings scored two tries for Horsham.

Heathfield now lead the way after a 36-0 win at derby rivals Hellingly. Ian Jenkins (2), Bryn Jones, Louis Beale, Will Drinkwater and Simon Wilson scored tries for Heath.

Chichester were 85-0 winners at home to 14-man Sussex Police with skipper Ben Polhill helping himself to four tries. Brothers Michael and Richard Johnson scored two apiece, Tom Polhill also crossed twice and there were tries for Paul Butt and Liam O'Hagan.

Crowborough scored all their points in a 48-8 win at Rye by the tenth minute of the second half. Tries came from Danny Martin (2), Jim Ball (2), Ian Gilbert, Jon de Sampaio, Tim Jackson and Steve McCabe. Bruce Brooker kicked four conversions.

UC Chichester enjoyed a 54-5 success at home to St Francis. Try scorers were Elliot Milns (4), Simon Swadling (2), John Ironmonger (2) and Joe Corbett.

Seaford remain unbeaten at the top of Sussex Two East after two James Tindall tries saw off rivals Newick. Tindall's scores, plus two conversions and a penalty from Simon Baker, eased the visitors to a 17-10 win. Adam Wrench replied for Newick and Liam Craig-Davies kicked a conversion and a penalty.

Matt Wilson completed a hat-trick of tries as Old Brightonians won 41-9 against 14-man Robertsbridge. There were also scores for Louis Clarke (2), Gerald Bush and Saul Green.

Burgess Hill were 38-8 winners at Ditchling.

Sussex Two West leaders Pulborough did not hit top gear but they still managed a 50-3 win at Midhurst. Tries came from skipper Will Lawes (2), Jon Scrase (2), Matt Wormull, Dave Collard, Ed Rydon and Richard Walters, who added five conversions.

Shoreham were delighted with their 8-8 derby draw at home to Norfolk Arms, which was secured by Gareth Horton's try from a lineout.

David Price's long-range score and a well worked try by Nail Bailey were highlights as Royal and Sun Alliance won 35-0 at Barns Green.