THE league's appeals committee has thrown out a bid by champions Leadgate to have their 100 point punishment overturned.

The unanimous decision comes a week after the league's disciplinary committee decided they had broken league rules by not resigning from the league before being accepted into the Tyneside Senior League.

League secretary Roy Coates said: "There is no further appeal, the decision is binding.

"All 13 clubs, the five who made the original decision and the eight who heard the appeal, were unanimous."

It is understood that some clubs even wanted Leadgate kicked out of the league, but that was considered too harsh.

Both Leadgate's first and second teams will now have 100 points deducted, kicked out of both league cups, and fined £50.

Leadgate will try to make up further lost ground today at home to Esh Winning, and they will have a full squad to choose from.

Esh are boosted by the return of Ian Barton, while Phil Ball is promoted after scoring a century last week for the seconds.

Brandon include another new signing, all rounder Trevor Hindmarsh from Durham, in their side at home to Willington, while Dean Storey returns to the side.

Willington, who pulled off a shock win at Crook last week, will give former Brandon player Owen Mullen his debut.

Crook make three changes to their team away to Langley Park.

Ian Williams, Dave Nevins and Lee Holloway are all included in their side, while Alan Marsh retains his place behind the stumps.

Langley are without David Leslie, while Michael Fleming is doubtful with a hamstring injury.

Sedgefield are boosted by the return of bowler Michael Lower to their side away to Ushaw Moor, who are without Martin Gill, Michael Hayton and Ian Ross.

Stephen Thompson and wicketkeeper Stuart Hutt return for Tudhoe at home to Etherley, who will be missing young batsman Carl McGregor.

Shildon Railway replace Andy Raine with Les Neesham at home to Mainsforth, who promote Danny Hooper from the seconds.

* The Durham Cricket Academy will take on the Wolviston Cricket Club XI, at Wolviston's Armstrong Park on Sunday June 3 in a 40 over game.

Play starts at 2pm and the Durham Academy will be lead by Geoff Cook.

Entry to the game is free and all are welcome.