New Marske are forced into making a number of changes for their visit to Stokesley this afternoon.

Goalkeeper Andrew Bensley is away and last season's regular goalkeeper Lee Payne will deputise. In addition, Kevin Wood and Darren Mitchell are sidelined, but Craig Mendum is back and it is likely that Ben Walker and Adam Taylor will be included in the squad.

Second-top North Shields, who have lost their last two matches, meet Ferryhill Athletic at Ralph Gardner Park.

But although 17 points separate the pair, the Robins still anticipate a close result.

Two players who missed last week's game, top scorer Russell Wilson and defender Paul Hogg, both resume while Ferryhill Athletic welcome the return of defender Ian Woldarczak, although neither Mark Brown nor Ian Snaith can play.

Birtley Town hope to make it three successive wins under new manager Gordon Green.

Two newcomers will make their debuts in the home game against Thornaby-on-Tees.

Defender Neil Wilson, who has played in the Albany Northern League, and Richard Wilson, who can play in midfield or attack, are a couple of Green's signings.

A further boost is the availability of Keith Cummings, who has missed the last two fixtures.

Russell Garlinge will be between the posts for Cleadon SC at home to Ryhope CW.

It is expected that Jimmy Elliott and Brian Mulvain will line-up in midfield with Kevin Westall in a striking role.

Jarrow host Whitburn minus Alan Scott and Jimmy Booth but Andrew Riley (Simonside SC) and Andrew Barclay (Birtley Town) will both turn out after recently signing.

Harton and Westoe travel to Redcar Town doubtful about the fitness of goalkeeper Carl King, but Wayne Goodwin and Steve Golightly, both absent for the midweek fixture, could resume.

Three sides from the league will be flying the flag in the Durham Challenge Cup.

Annfield Plain play Tow Law without Stephen Thomas, who could be out for some with an injury sustained in Sunday football.

Chris Nevin, who has scored five times in his last two outings on his return to the club, will spearhead the attack and David Foster is added to the squad.

For their home tie with Shotton Comrades, Boldon CA have Mark Watson available after being sidelined for five weeks with a knee injury, while Stanley United host Dunston Fed unable to consider no fewer than seven players.