Consett manager Ray Lish has told his players that promotion to the Northern League first division is by no means certain.

Consett are 16 points clear in the second division, and if they win today at Hebburn, will have the distinction of having picked up 60 points by the end of the year.

Lish said: "We're not unstoppable. Nissan were well ahead last year, then fell apart. The same thing can happen to us, especially as opposing teams are making it very difficult for us."

Defender Jonny Brown is set to return for Consett.

First division leaders Durham City visit Chester-le-Street without Stephen Stewart and Micky Dunwell, but striker Robbie Herbert will have a fitness test. Andrew Shaw will replace Dunwell.

Chester, who have won their last two matches, have signed midfielder Lee Compton from Jarrow Roofing, while Ross Lumsden has returned from America.

Bedlington, who are second, will be unchanged for their derby at home to Morpeth. Brandon include new midfielder Richie Alderson in their squad at home to Dunston, while Rob Bowman and Anth McStea will both have fitness tests.

Dunston, who have games in hand, are without Michael Robson and Mark Taylor.

Second-bottom Marske United welcome back Tom Jones to their squad for their derby with Guisborough, who are just above them.

Marske have also signed youngsters Stephen Morley and Micky Bond from Darlington.

Shildon, who are just above midtable, include new signings Paul Campbell, Kurt Warburton and Warren Burn in their squad at home to West Auckland, for whom David Bainbridge returns.

Tow Law, who are fourth bottom, could have a new signing in their side at home to Esh Winning, who could be without striker Gary Messer because of injury.

Jarrow Roofing's new signing, Ian Chandler, is unable to play against his old club Whitley Bay, as a condition of his recent transfer deal between the two clubs.

Peterlee welcome back defender Danny Cobain at home to Horden, who could make changes.

In the other second division matches, Crook Town, fresh from their 5-0 win over Willington last week, have signed Jamie Harwood from West Auckland and include him in their squad at home to second-top Ashington.

Evenwood are without defender Simon Purrier at home to bottom club Shotton.

Seaham Red Star, who are just above the drop zone, include new signing Trevor Tierney in their side at home to Kennek Ryhope CA, who are without skipper Dave Christie because of a knee injury.

Washington Nissan could have two new signings in their squad at home to second bottom Easington. However, Glen Moan, Ryan Moore and Neil Jackson will all have fitness tests.

Norton, third from bottom, are strengthened by the returns of Dan Pilling, Chris Garbutt and Paul Lennox away to Whickham.

Northallerton, who are in the pack chasing the third promotion spot, are without suspended pair Ross Diamond and Anthony Roberts for their home game with Murton, who are unbeaten in six matches. Newcastle Blue Star, in third, are unchanged for their home game with Prudhoe.

* Billingham Synthonia yesterday beat their rivals Billingham Town 1-0.

Neil Radigan scored the only goal direct from a corner after ten minutes. Synners also had a Chris Fawcett's effort cleared off the line, while Jason Ainsley went close with a free kick for Town.