THE Baker Cup Final everyone in Chard and Ilminster had hoped for is on and now the countdown has started to next Thursday's showdown at the County Ground between - Chard and Ilminster.

Premier One outfit Ilminster made their way through to the final with a victory last night over defending champions North Petherton.

And now they are all set to meet arch-rivals Chard, of Premier Two, in what is going to be an intriguing local derby at the home of Somerset County Cricket Club in Taunton.

Chard won their semi-final on Monday when they beat Bishops Lydeard of the West of England league’s Somerset division by seven wickets.

The final takes place at the County Ground, Taunton, on Thursday (July 26) with a 6pm start.

It will be a massive game for both clubs. See next week's Chard and Ilminster for a full preview of the match - out on Wednesday, July 25.