The League has handed their clubs a welcome cash boost by paying Durham FA affiliation fees for the forthcoming 2002-2003 season.

After another successful season, the League has handed its clubs the bonus for the second year running - a gesture which is absolutely unique to the Durham FA area, if not the country.

And the League hasn't stopped there. Every club will also receive a brand new match ball for the new season.

"We are the only League in the Durham FA area which pays for such a thing and we are proud of this," said Treasurer Brian Boughen. "After another good season, we believe this is the best way we can show our appreciation to our members by effectively giving them a little extra cash in their bank account and a brand new ball."

The League has unveiled a re-structured format for the 2002-03 season after slightly reducing the number of clubs to improve efficiency.

Bad weather hampered fixtures last season and, although all league and cup games were again fulfilled, the Second Division has been reduced to mean there are now 13 teams in each division - a move designed to avoid any possible fixture congestion.

First Division: New Masons, Newton Aycliffe, Old Shildon, Lakeside (Huntsman), Eldon Lane, The Grand, Salvins, Beehive (Laceys) and Brandon, with Thorns, Loves, Tudhoe Utd (Black Horse) and Binchester Social Club all gaining promotion.

Second Division: Horndale (relegated), Postchaise, Brawns Den, Green Tree, Shildon Athletic, Masons United, Boot & Shoe, North Briton, Two Blues, Victoria, Cumby Arms (Locomotion), Binchester Hotel and Eldon Arms.

The League Committee has also been re-structured. Mike Clarke had to resign as Secretary due to work commitments, with former Chairman Mike Hill taking over. Martin Walker takes up the Chairman's role, while Brian Boughen (Treasurer), Norman Dale (Fixture Secretary), Thomas Lye (Registration Secretary) and George Richardson (Referees' Representative) maintain their respective positions.

"Mike Clarke did a tremendous job for this League," said Mike Hill. "Unfortunately, he has had to resign through work commitments, but I would like to thank him for all his work over the years. He will be greatly missed not only as Secretary but also as one of our top referees."

Meanwhile, the League plans to hold a Referees' Meeting next Tuesday (July 16) for present and potential officials for the forthcoming 2002-2003 season.

The League enjoyed yet another successful season last year - a success which was largely down to the continued support of referees.

And the League hopes to retain their impressive and loyal pool of officials for the new season, which starts on Sunday, August 18.

"We were again indebted to our referees," said the League's Fixture Secretary Norman Dale. "Their support is certainly not unnoticed and we hope they stick with us and give us the same backing this season."

The meeting will be held at Spennymoor United Social Club, Brewery Field, from 7.30pm on Tuesday. All referees - present and others who may be interested in joining the League - along with Club secretaries are all welcome.