Crook Town are looking for a new manager following the sudden resignation of Alan Shoulder.

The former Newcastle player decided to quit the Albany Northern League club earlier this week after describing his position as "untenable".

Shoulder said: "I cannot work with a chairman who's upset so many people at the club during the year. Twice during the year he tried to sack me, and at the AGM last week I asked him why but he couldn't tell me."

Crook had their best season for many years last year. They reached the last qualifying round of the FA Cup the first they had played at that stage for over two decades and went out of the FA Vase in the last sixteen to the eventual winners Deal Town.

The club is now looking for a replacement. Anyone interested should contact secretary Alan Stewart on 01388-763425

l Northern League Second Division champions Brandon have been handed a tough opening game when the new season begins on August 19.

Kenny Lindoe's team must play Whitley Bay, relegated from the UniBond League First Division, and will play their first game in the league for over a decade.

Defending champions Bedlington have a tricky start at home to Consett, while Seaham Red Star are at Billingham Town.

Durham City are at promoted Newcastle Blue Star.

In the Second Division, Shildon are at Norton.

Shotton and Thornaby, both relegated, are at home to Northallerton and Evenwood respectively.

The full list is:

First Division: Bedlington v Consett, Billingham Town v Seaham Red Star, Brandon v Whitley Bay, Chester-le-Street v Jarrow Roofing, Easington v Morpeth, Marske United v Crook, Newcastle Blue Star v Durham City, Peterlee v Guisborough, Tow Law v Billingham Synthonia, West Auckland v Dunston

Second Division: Alnwick v Eppleton, Esh Winning v Willington, Horden v Washington, Murton v South Shields, Norton v Shildon, Penrith v Kennek Ryhope CA, Prudhoe v Whickham, Shotton v Northallerton, Thornaby v Evenwood