Durham Coast League: Murton maintained their 25-point lead at the top when they had almost 100 runs in hand of Bill Quay.

Runs flowed for the leaders when they batted first and the formidable total of 276-5 was achieved before the declaration was applied. Openers Graeme Robson (70) and David Scorer (79) gave the innings firm foundations and the momentum was built on by Calvin Stephenson (73).

In contrast, Bill Quay lost a couple of early wickets before Andrew Trotter steadied things with 61. Although they realised 177, the home side never threatened as Stephenson, Joe Dodd and Keith Chapman shared the wickets.

Hylton stay second following their victory at Peterlee, who managed only 145 as Shaun Smith claimed seven for 50. Michael Garragan made 52, but that was the only big score.

No Hylton batsman made a sizeable contribution, but 30 plus scores from captain David Hanson and Smith led to a total of 187-9 being posted even though Keith Hewson claimed five for 80 and Nicky Beall three at a cost of 79 runs.

Graeme Anderson's phenomenal form came to an end, but Ryhope still won comfortably at Boldon CA.

It was Graeme Smith who commanded the innings, ending unbeaten on 61 in a total of 122-3. Smith was also in form with the ball capturing four for a mere 19 runs when Boldon were sent back with only 119 on top, which included 31 from Lee Jackson.

Houghton's batsmen again made a useful total, but it was still insufficient to secure a first win of the season.

Paul Elliott opened with 66 and his partner Lee Husband made 39, setting the scene for a score of 170 even though David Kennedy took 4-66 and Brian Daniel 3-36 in the Easington attack.

Paul Neesham and Kennedy both made half centuries guiding Easington to a seven-wicket win.

One-time championship contenders Silksworth ended 39 runs ahead visiting Dawdon, who were all out for 165 including 72 by opener Bobby Stephenson and 40 from Dawson.

Captain David Tait picked up four for 31 and Steve Wright had 4-71 for Silksworth who, batting first, produced a total of 204-9 declared.

Graeme Weeks opened with 31 but Smailes, with 74, gave the innings depth as Scott and Neville Gustard both took three wickets for Dawdon.

Seaham Park upset the form book and finally ended Castle Eden's challenge for honours. James Taylor and David Morton shared seven wickets as the one-time title hopefuls were bowled out for 172, which included 42 by the returning Michael Higgin and 31 from John Spellman junior.

Batting first, Seaham recovered from an uncertain start and Morton was nine runs short of a century when time was up.

He ended undefeated after forming a productive partnership with Michael McNicholas, who added 48 before being run out.