The top-of-the-table encounter between heavyweights Burnmoor and Whitburn ended in stalemate, but not without highlighting the wealth of talent in both teams.

Leaders Burnmoor extended their advantage slightly with three extra points from the drawn finish but they came tantalisingly close to a win.

After producing a fearsome batting display to finish with 285 for four, they had eight Whitburn wickets down at the close but their rivals hung on, 72 runs behind.

Burnmoor's form was typified by anchorman Barry Dews, who was unbeaten on 104.

In reply, Ashley Thorpe, with another century, made sure Burnmoor's bowlers did not get any early advantage. But when he became one of Ian Conn's four victims, Whitburn relied heavily on Eden Elstob (43) to save the game.

Boldon consolidated third place when they knocked off 226 to win by two wickets at Hetton Lyons. Joseph Coyne (56) and Foster (54) led the visitors to victory, although it needed a ninth wicket partnership between Andrew Doherty and Phil Shakespeare to clinch it.

The Lyons only lost four wickets in their innings with Riddle (62), Walker (49) and Steele (42) taking the honours. Walker went on to take three wickets, but Boldon squeezed home.

South African Gerhard De Bruin was in irresistible form as Philadelphia skittled out Felling for 89 to win by five wickets. De Bruin enjoyed his best figures of the season, 6-23.

The day's outstanding performance was by John Leslie for South Hetton as he blasted out bottom club Seaham Harbour for 72. His 13.5 overs gave him a return of eight for 31 with his last four wickets coming from five balls as he ended the innings in style.

Durham City's season stuttered onwards as they lost again - their fourth defeat in five - at the hands of Horden. City were swept away by Dixon (5-35) to be dismissed for 126, although they battled back with five wickets from Corey Verco.