Lancashire have won their first LV County Championship in 77 years with a dramatic victory at Taunton on the final afternoon of the season.

The Red Rose, who last claimed the title outright in 1934, chased down 211 to secure an eight-wicket win and pip Warwickshire to the crown.

At the start of the day, the Midlands side looked favourites to win the Championship as they were on course for a comfortable win over already-relegated Hampshire at the Rose Bowl.

However, they were left frustrated by a resilient home batting display as Michael Carberry and Neil Mckenzie both made centuries, leaving the door open for the Red Rose.

Lancashire themselves had been held up by a century from Peter Trego, but three wickets from Simon Kerrigan and skipper Glen Chapple – bowling despite suffering a suspected torn hamstring, saw Somerset out for 310.

It left Lancashire needing 211 from 34 overs to claim the trophy, with Warwickshire’s clash with Hampshire finishing as a draw.

Paul Horton and Stephen Moore shared a blistering 131-run opening partnership in just 17 overs to set up the win.

And Steven Croft (40) and Karl Brown (33) steered them home amidst scenes of jubilation at Taunton.