A magnificent innings by Andrew Smith was the feature of the programme and he led Chester-le-Street to an impressive victory at Eppleton, writes Malcolm Pratt.

The talented youngster who previously played for Langley Park ended unbeaten on 104 out of the Cestrians total of 165. Replying Eppleton were restricted to 38.

Thomas Raine was in good all-round form for Philadelphia at home to Felling. He ended unbeaten on 44 in a total of 84 for three and then captures four wickets for just four runs in five overs as the visitors were pegged at 43 for eight.

David Patterson took four wickets for 15 runs in five overs and Adam Dawson had three for six from the 4.3 overs he delivered as Burnmoor were dismissed for 36 in 14.3 overs by South Shields at Wood Terrace. The home side then romped to victory as Chris Dorothy carried his bat for 30 in a total of 40 without loss.

After restricting Gateshead Fell to 45 for six, Boldon won by seven wickets and Durham City had 32 runs to spare at Hordon.

Smartley struck a six and five boundaries in an unbeaten 34 and Paxton added 45 with seven fours to the Durham City total of 110 for five.

Stephen Birks contributed 31 not out with four boundaries and Paul Dixon also found the boundary line of four occasions adding 24 to the Horden total of 78 for two.