With the programme again severely interrupted by rain, Hetton Lyons would be disappointed at not being able to pick up maximum points. However, with second-placed Whitburn restricted in their match with Eppleton to just six points for their efforts, the Lyons' lead was extended to ten points.

The leaders made an ideal start when Seaham Harbour opener Martin Gill was dismissed without scoring. Other regular runmakers Graham Thorpe and David Thompson were also unable to make an impression but Hetton Lyons were thwarted by David Leslie. His innings of 88 hindered Hetton Lyons' progress and despite 3-58 from Ian Male, Seaham ended with 189.

Although Sean Birbeck, Mark Hopkinson and Steve Errington all entered the 20s, it was Tom Nixon with an unbeaten 52 who top-scored in his side's reply. This though was not sufficient to force a win.

Although Whitburn and Eppleton began on time a deluge caused a lengthy interruption in play. By losing 140 minutes, the game lost any chance of reaching a conclusion with Eppleton exerting extreme caution.

They lost Sean Ezzard at 34 but then made excellent progress through Jimmy Daley and David Lowther. The pair put on 107 together either side of the rainstorm before Lowther departed with a useful half century.

Daley then found support from Shaun Bradbury (37 not out) as Eppleton seemed intent on gaining as many batting points as possible, thus giving Whitburn little chance.

Opener Daley passed 1,000 runs for the season and was unbeaten on 95 when the innings was eventually closed on 203.

With just ten overs, Whitburn could gain nothing. They batted cautiously to ensure their opponents collected no more points in the rain-ruined contest.

Only 24 overs were possible at South Shields. Despite a prompt start, gathering clouds led to a downpour after 87 minutes play. During this time, Durham City picked up three Shields wickets and when the abandonment came, the home side were on 94.

Burnmoor looked to be in real trouble against South Hetton when the rain arrived. At 60 for five wickets, only Neil Young (31 not out) appeared able to prevent South Hetton skittling their opponents. David Wilkinson (3-21) and John Leslie (2-23) had brought about the Burnmoor demise.

The game at Horden was an early victim of the weather. Opponents Boldon were asked not to travel, such was the condition of the Horden pitch.

Marsden recorded the only win of the day when they beat Felling and the weather.

Losing 105 minutes for rain did not deter Marsden who dismissed their opponents for just 122. There were three wickets each for Jobn Stobbart (3-24) and Chris Mann (3-46) before Marsden mounted their challenge.

Mark Scott with an unbeaten 40 ensured his side won by five wickets with ten balls remaining.