Peterlee are hoping to complete a remarkable escape from relegation at Newcastle Blue Star today.

Only a few weeks ago, Peterlee seemed destined for relegation alongside today's opponents, as they were 12 points adrift of safety at one stage.

But after going five games unbeaten, they are now just one point behind fourth-bottom Prudhoe.

And if Andy Toman's side wins today and Prudhoe drop points at home to Morpeth, then Prudhoe will go down. Toman, who could play today if Mark O'Byrne fails a fitness test, said: "I think that either ourselves or Prudhoe will lose today.

"To be honest, I'm pleased we're playing away, because we've done well away in the last few weeks, we've won at Dunston and Tow Law.

"It's nice to be going into the last game with something to play for. I just hope that Morpeth, who are playing Prudhoe, aren't too tired after all the games they've played recently."

Morpeth have played six times in the last fortnight and Prudhoe boss Steve Smith said: "It is time for our players to stand up and be counted.

"We need a big game out of them - when you consider the players we have at the club, they should be embarrassed with the situation they're in."

Smith could start the game, but has yet to make a decision.

Shildon and Billingham Town battle it out for a possible place in the top four at Dean Street.

Shildon, who are sixth, have one or two fitness doubts after their midweek league cup semi-final win.

Manager Ray Gowan said: "Billingham Town beat us 5-1 earlier in the season, but we are much better now than we were then."

Town, one place ahead of Shildon, have injury problems, with both midfielder Dave Gallagher and keeper Darren Collier injured, while defender Anthony Lee is suspended, and striker Craig Skelton unavailable.

League runners-up Bedlington are at Dunston, and have doubts over defender Warren Teasdale and keeper Peter Guthrie.

Tow Law, who haven't won in six league matches, are at home to Washington, and will be without midfielder Scott Nicholson, who is suspended.

West Auckland face Esh Winning, who have conceded 17 goals in their last three matches, and expect to be unchanged.

Relegated Consett are looking for a new manager following the departure of Colin Carr. Anyone interested should write to secretary Ian Hamilton, at 29 Grange Street, Delves Lane, Consett, DH8 7AG

In the second division, Durham Challenge Cup winners Horden can give their promotion chances a huge boost if they can beat Thornaby, who are just above them in the league in second place.

Manager Tommy Garside will choose from a full squad, except for injured defender Alan Martin. Horden's league game at Eppleton has been ordered to be replayed next week.

Seaham Red Star, who are hoping for the teams above them to slip up, are at home to Evenwood. The visitors, who have a Craven Cup final date to look forward to, will probably be unchanged.

One time leaders Washington Nissan play their last game at home to fourth placed Ashington, and will be without defenders Glen Moan and Kevin Bruce.

Nissan cannot finish any higher than sixth. Northallerton, who are at home to Hebburn, welcome back Andy Cole and Steve Boyle to their side.

Eppleton, who are almost certain to be relegated, are looking for their second victory in a week over Willington, and welcome back defender Phil Graham.