Brandon are the pride of the Durham County League after their fourth successive win gave them their best start to a season for years.

Stephen Ball led the parade with an unbeaten 136 against Evenwood, with support from Lewis Newby (52), as they made 280 for three.

James Robinson picked up four wickets as they went on to win by 77 runs, sending their opponents crashing to their first defeat of the campaign and putting themselves on top with a ten-point advantage over Willington.

Their second place was secured with victory by seven wickets over Crook, who were restricted to 148 for five despite another fine half-century from Danny Thexton.

Aaron Proud (53no) gave Willington the winning edge, getting them home by seven wickets with 11 overs to spare.

Third-placed Langley Park won by 115 runs against Marsden, whose bowlers took a battering.

The Park made an impressive 324 for four before declaring, with Chris Winn smashing 122 and brother, Jamie, grabbing four wickets.

Ryan Dowens also celebrated with a century as Marsden showed plenty of spirit but never got anywhere near their opponents score.

Etherley prop up the rest after being bowled out for 55 by Esh Winning, while Shildon, who are second bottom, nine points ahead of them, faired little better when beaten by Mainsforth.