Bishop Auckland Cricket Club is looking for a new secretary. Club stalwart Harry Smurthwaite has retired after 12 years in the job.

Smurthwaite has had 36 years with Bishops, including a spell as first team captain. He has also retired from playing after 50 years in the game.

"Ideally we need someone in their 40s who is no longer playing regularly," said club chairman Keith Hopper, who can be contacted on (01325) 332663. The club is also looking for volunteers to organise events to celebrate the club's 150th anniversary next year.

Bishops are hosting two top class friendlies as part of the Queen's Jubilee celebrations. Tim Garfield's XI from Nottinghamshire will visit Kingsway on Sunday June 2, and Durham University on Monday June 3.

Darren Blenkiron has taken over as first team captain, with Keith Stones as vice captain. After being relegated last season, the fist XI start their campaign in the first division of the North Yorks and South Durham League away to Billingham Synthonia on Saturday April 27.

John Brennan again captains the second team who begin their programme in division two at home to Marton II the same day.