They are certainly hardy souls in North West Durham and none more so than at Annfield Plain, where a fair number of matches have been cancelled in recent years because of inclement weather.

But in bygone days matches went ahead sometimes with several inches of snow on the pitch.

And when Annfield Plain's game was wiped out last Saturday, stalwart Marshall Lawson reminisced about the times when fewer games were called off.

"I well recall playing for the Plain at Blyth Spartans in the 60s. From memory, it was the only match which went ahead down the East Coast between Edinburgh and Grimsby. It was very frosty and both sides finished with just eight men.

"It was not a case of six players getting injured - they had to leave the field suffering from hypothermia!

"They had hot baths and in those days we travelled by coach so we put our three lads on the back seat and wrapped them in our coats. I know it took them some time to get over it but then we never thought much about playing in such conditions," recalled Lawson who has given a lifetime of dedication to the North West Durham club.

Annfield Plain are hoping their game tomorrow goes ahead. With the side immediately above them on cup duty, the Plain have the opportunity to move out of the bottom three but unless they hit a winning sequence they are unlikely to end above fifth from the bottom.

"We have had a disappointing season, having suffered with a big injury list. In addition we have fielded a young, inexperienced side but I feel the lads are improving.

We are a different team compared to the one which started the campaign and with more experience under their belts, the side could make an impact next time around," added Lawson.

John Moore, the former Sunderland player is helping with coaching and Lawson is confident his experience will rub off on the players.

Last week's programme was completely wiped out which means that the third round Monkwearmouth Charity Cup ties will have to be re-arranged. The likely date is February 14.

Stokesley SC are expected to play their game at Wolviston on this date which means they will be in cup action on two successive Saturdays. Their North Riding County Cup semi final tie at home to Richmond Mavericks is scheduled for February 21.

Tomorrow's fixtures: Wearside League (2pm): Annfield Plain v Ryhope CW, Boldon CA v Jarrow, Gateshead Reserves v Harton and Westoe, Washington Nissan UK v Barnard Castle Glaxo, New Marske v Cleadon SC.

Sunderland Shipowners' Cup (1.30pm): Birtley Town v Darlington RA, North Shields v Wolviston, Windscale v Ferryhill Athletic, Whitehaven v Stokesley SC.