Glen Shepherd has returned to New Marske - much to the delight of secretary Peter Livingstone. He made his comeback in the crucial win over Birtley Town last week and Livingstone reckons his knowledge will be vital in the coming months.

"Glen is 42 and was coach with Billingham Town. He showed last Saturday his vast experience and really settled the lads down when we went a goal behind in the early stages," said Livingstone.

"We had 22 players to choose from at Birtley and went for experience which paid off. The victory took us to the top of the table for the first time this season but we all appreciate there is still an awful long way to go."

New Marske are just a point better off than North Shields, who have two games in hand while Redcar Town, in sixth place, had played four matches fewer than the leaders.

"I would rather have the points in the bag," declared Livingstone. Some sides are going to have a hectic run-in to the end of the season and it is likely that the race for the championship will go right to the wire."

Off the field, New Marske are looking to develop their facilities and recently lodged a planning application to build a new stand.

"We need to improve our ground if we are to progress. The club has a lot of youngsters coming through and the future is bright but we have also got to get it right off the field as well as on it," exclaimed Livingstone.

The club is looking for sponsors and anyone interested is asked to contact Livingstone on 01642 646428.

Stanley United manager Vince Kirkup is delighted to welcome back long-term injury victims, captain Alan Humble and Paul Greaves, who have both been sidelined for four months.

"The pair will be of immense importance to us in the coming months as we fight to avoid the wooden-spoon. They play in defence and are the club's longest-serving players.

"Alan came to us from junior football, having played for Esh Winning and Durham County Youths while Paul has had experience in the Albany Northern League with Crook Town, Newcastle Blue Star and Brandon.

"We have a fight on and I need all the experience I can lay my hands on," said

Kirkup, who in an attempt to add sparkle to the attack has signed Dwayne Hinds. His father Peter was well-known in his playing days with Bishop Auckland.