Crook and District League - Willington Cottles, champions last season, kicked off the new campaign with a 7-l victory over Crook White Swan. Wayne Fleming and Ian Britton (pen) made it 2-0 at half-time.

A second half hat-trick from Anthony Stewart and a goal from Ian Woodhalll completed the Willington tally. Paul Gibson replied for White Swan.

Wearhead United had an excellent 3-l win at Byers Green but were heavily indebted to keeper Chris Oliver who was outstanding. The dales side led l-0 at half time through Graham Walker. Second half goals from Michael and Kevin Coulthard made it 3-0. St Peters had a lot of the game but could only manage a late consolation from John Wheatley.

After taking an early lead against Howden Australian, Bishop Rugby Club went 3-l down. They came back to 3-3 before losing out to a 88th minute own goal from Stephen Robinson. Stephen Burke, John Curry and David Wilkinson were the other Australian scorers whilst the Rugby Club replied through David Foggin (2) and John Paul Collinson.

Earl of Warwick's 5-l win against Stanhope Town was marred by injuries to two players who needed hospital attention. Rob O'Dell cancelled out an Earl of Warwick opener but the home side reassumed control to complete a comfortable win. Wayne Carr, Robert Wringe, Andrew Sugden, Paul Vickers and Anthony Bailes scored.

Tow Law Cattle Mart took the lead at Crook Wanderers but ended losing 6-3. Wayne Lonsdale knocked in a hat-trick for Wanderers and also missed a penalty.

The rest came from Stephen Emery, Mark Nichol and Stuart Dawson.

Lee Furber (2) and Eddie Umpleby replied for The Cattle Mart.

Hambleton Ales Combination

The new season begins on Sunday, September 2 with a full programme of 18 league games in a format of three divisions.

Since last season Masham of division one and Romanby Park of division three have both resigned from the league and West Tanfield FC have joined.

They will play in the third division.

Due to the foot-and-mouth epidemic which caused the premature end to last season in March, there is to be no Charity Shield game this year.

Some midweek games may be arranged informally between clubs at the start of the season.