Bishop Auckland have told the UniBond League that they intend to have most of their ground improvements completed by the April 1 deadline.

League inspectors told Bishops two months ago that they would need to increase the capacity of their covered stand, provide more spectator facilities and extend the referee's changing room at Dean Street so then they could play in the Premier Division next season, assuming they finish in a promotion position.

Chairman Terry Jackson said: "I met with the management committee last Sunday and confirmed we intend to complete all the necessary ground improvements by the deadline.

"The only exception to this is the officials' dressing room where we will request a summer deadline so that we can complete the work out of season.

"The club is committed to these ground improvements, and I appeal to Bishop fans to do all they can to assist. Steve Newcomb has provided some valuable help, and our hosts could not have been more helpful."

Meanwhile, former Bishop Auckland manager Lawrie McMenemy has agreed to open a football exhibition at the Bishop Auckland Discovery Centre on Friday, March 12. Bishops are one of five local clubs involved in the project, and Jackson said: "The whole idea is to test the concept of an amateur/non league football museum."

Bishops have been given a tough semi-final draw in the league cup at Droylsden, who are pushing for the Premier Division title. Hucknall are at home to Matlock in the other semi. Games are due to be played on Saturday, March 6.

Spennymoor secretary Brian Boughen has announced his retirement.

After being secretary for five years he announced his decision on health grounds at the weekend, and will be replaced by committee member Thomas Metcalfe.

Chairman Barrie Hindmarch, meanwhile, is set for a triple heart by pass operation in the very near future.

Fundraising is gathering momentum, and there are now plans to hold an auction of memorabilia next month. There will also be a sponsored walk on Sunday, February 29.

Bucket collections for Moors by other clubs have also brought in over £250. Harrogate held a collection before their game against Vauxhall Motors last week and raised £152, while Droylsden collected £100 when Moors played there recently.

Midweek results: First Division: Guiseley 3 Belper 0, Lincoln United 0 Stocksbridge 0

TOMORROW'S fixtures: FA trophy fourth round: Blyth v Aldershot

Premier Division: Alfreton v Harrogate Town, Bradford v Wakefield and Emley, Burscough v Frickley, Droylsden v Lancaster, Gainsborough v Whitby, Runcorn v Barrow, Spennymoor v Ashton United, Vauxhall Motors v Southport

First Division: Bamber Bridge v Colwyn Bay, Belper v Gateshead, Bishop Auckland v Witton Albion, Bridlington v Leek, Kidsgrove v Lincoln United, Matlock v North Ferriby, Ossett Town v Guiseley, Prescot Cables v Frickley, Rossendale v Kendal, Stocksbridge v Chorley, Workington v Hyde.