THOUSANDS of North-East cricket fans face damp disappointment today with the prospect of little play as Test cricket returns to the region.

With continuing wet weather forecast across the North today it could bring a complete wash-out of the opening day of the fourth Test of the npower series, between England and the West Indies.

Even if the rain relents as the day progresses, Durham's Riverside ground at Chester-le-Street may well not dry out in time to allow any opening day play, despite the efforts of the over-worked county ground staff.

A sell-out 16,000 crowd appears set for a frustrating day, but Durham County Cricket Club officials stressed that the decision on whether or not play takes place rests with the umpires.

Club spokesman Andrew Jarvis said: "The umpires will be here from before 9am and they will make any decision after consulting with the ground staff.

"The gates will open from 9am regardless, and we can only ask people to come along and be prepared for the weather, by bringing jumpers, coats and umbrellas.

"Unfortunately, our indoor facilities are limited, although people can get shelter under the stands, but we would ask them to be prepared."

Should no play, or fewer than ten overs be possible, ticket-holders will be eligible for a full refund, with a 50 per cent refund should between ten and 25 overs take place.

Refund details are printed on all tickets.

Prospects of play are slightly improved for tomorrow and Sunday, although the wet weather is expected to relent as the weekend progresses.

There is another sell-out tomorrow, but a few tickets remain for Sunday's play, while there are plenty of tickets available for the fourth and fifth days of play, on Monday and Tuesday.

Details of ticket availability and prospects of play are available on 0870-389-1991, followed by various options.

Corporate hospitality arrangements will be unaffected by the weather, with a total of 650 staff working at the ground, including 100 from outside bodies, including the ECB, Sky TV and replay operators Hawkeye.

As wet weather brings the possibility of localised flooding across the North, the Environment Agency will give news of flood warnings on 0845-988-1188.