Castle Eden cemented their position as leaders with victory over Peterlee yesterday. The visitors were bowled out for 106 with John Malkin claiming four for ten. Castle then knocked the required runs off for the loss of just two wickets, Malkin hit an unbeaten 25.

Bill Quay set their stall out not to lose at Murton and came away with a draw. Calvin Stephenson top scored for Murton with 35 and then took four wickets. Little batted for a lengthy spell to remain unbeaten on 35.

Boldon CA were locked in a stalemate with draw specialists Seaham Park.

Only Silksworth of the other sides playing managed a win.

Runners-up last year, Castle Eden are determined to win the championship this time around. Saturday's win at Easington took them into pole position as leaders Bill Quay lost ground after a drawn with Boldon.

Castle Eden's initial weekend dominance was largely due to the bowling of Tony Banks (5-35) and Calum Harding (3-20) who had Easington back in the pavilion for a disappointing 76.

Castle Eden romped to victory thanks to Dean Langridge (31 not out) and Liam Brown (30 not out) by six wickets.

Champions Murton beat Dawdon by seven wickets on Saturday after Riddle (6-52) gave his side the edge.

The home team posted 159-8 with Ryan Consitt (66) top scoring helped by youngster Craig Scurr (39 not out).

Murton were confident in reply with Calvin Stephenson (63 not out) and Arundel (40).

Washington beat Silksworth by five wickets with Andy Wilkie (4-13) and Talbot (3-34) restricting their visitors to 133.

A half century for Nelson and Cuthbertson (40 no) saw Washington through.

Seaham Park's top scorer, Alan Worthy (73 not out) saved the day with the last man, Akhtar, helping to play out the final over for a share in the points.

For Ryhope, Purewell (67) and Paul Howe (53) were in the runs.

Seaham bowlers David Kennedy (3-9) and Robbie Atherton (3-65) were in form.

Bowlers held court at Boldon with six wickets for Brown for Bill Quay and seven for David Batty for the home side, but the game fizzled out after Jeff Tudor hit 62 for the Quay.