Norton, only a few seasons ago were knocking on the door for a place in the National League, but now they have fallen on hard times.

They have lost their opening six games in Division One of the Northern League, have suffered relegation last season.

Chairman John Sale said: "We have lost over 30 players for varying reasons - players have moved on, some to a higher club, moved to other parts of the country for work or studies while some have retired."

Norton, who suffered two double-figure defeats in their first two games, are relying more than ever on youth.

Sale added: "We just about have enough car drivers for an away game.

"It is a bit of a struggle at the moment but we will survive one way or another. We will not give in - not at all."

But Norton still have their plans, aiming to provide the first water-based pitch in the north east.

Norton's latest defeat came at the hands of Durham University second team, beaten 6-0.

However, Durham first team suffered their first defeat of the season, losing 4-1 to Sheffield United Bankers and City of York went down 3-2 to Doncaster seconds.