THORNS lead the First Division going into the second half of the season while former champions Newton Aycliffe and hot favourites Old Shildon are in close pursuit.

In what promises to be another closely-fought title contest, five teams look to be the nearest contenders for the league championship going into the New Year.

While Thorns, promoted last season, are currently top of the pile, teams below have games in hand - although they all have each other to play.

Thorns' remaining fixtures include: Lakeside (H), Newton Aycliffe (H), Old Shildon (A) and Loves (A).

Newton Aycliffe are currently second with four games in hand. Their outstanding games include: Lakeside (H), Loves (H), Thorns (A) and Loves (A).

Old Shildon's fixtures include: Thorns (H), Loves (H), Lakeside (A) and Loves (A).

Lakeside's games include: Old Shildon (H), Thorns (A), Newton Aycliffe (A) and Loves (A).

Finally, Loves - currently sixth having played only six games - have six major games to contend with. Their key games include: Old Shildon (H), Thorns (H), Newton Aycliffe (H), Newton Aycliffe (A), Old Shildon (A) and Lakeside (H).

Old Shildon, who finished third last season, believe they have as good a chance as any to lift the title.

"We believe we have an excellent of going all the way," said Secretary Sharron Hedley. "It's not going to be easy. It's going to be very close but our lads are well up for it. They desperately want to win it because it has taken us a long time to get to where we are now."