Wolviston face a stern test when they visit second-top Cleadon SC in the Monkwearmouth Charity Cup this afternoon.

"Jack Clark Park is not a happy hunting ground for us. It seems to hold a jinx because no matter how well we play, we never seem to get a result," bemoaned manager Graham Howard. With central defender Gareth Murphy and Paul Edwards both suspended, Wolviston will be under strength but Howard is hopeful that goalkeeper Simon Clark will have shaken off an ankle injury to be able to play.

Cleadon, enjoying their best season in years, are on a high and they anticipate being close to full strength. Peter Brand and Andrew Quinn are both absentees but otherwise manager Doug Key has a big squad to choose from.

Leaders Birtley Town have home advantage over New Marske. All clubs had a free day last Saturday and Birtley took the opportunity to train. "We put in a good stint and there were no after effects so apart from Anthony Cosgrove, who is banned, I will be able to field my first-choice line-up," said manager David Smith.

Stokesley SC have second bottom Windscale as visitors. Either Ben Escritt or Grant Hine will keep goal and secretary Peter Grainge is hoping that both Richard Hore and Jonathan Newton will pass late fitness tests but Ian Redpath is definitely out with a calf strain.

Darlington RA visit Ryhope CW and it is touch and go whether Mark Radmore, who was injured playing for the league side last weekend, will be able to turn out. Secretary Martyn Jackson is pleased that Rob Homan, Gary Hornsby and Rob Morley all come into contention after recovering from injuries.

Dean Patton resumes after completing a five-weeks suspension for Jarrow who are likely to again be without Gary Attwell for their home game with Washington Nissan UK. Ferryhill Athletic, visiting Gateshead Reserves, are back to almost full strength with the availability of Stephen Salisbury, Andrew Patterson and Michael Weston.

Harton and Westoe add goalkeeper Neil Smith and Tommy Nixon to their squad for the local derby at Boldon CA and holders North Shields miss Martin Lamb and Mark Cass at Whitehaven.

There is only one game in the league with Barnard Castle Glaxo at home to Annfield Plain. Simon Rathbone and Stuart Murray are unable to play for Glaxo and the Plain name Tony Dawe in goal for the suspended Paul Hedley.