Seaham Park felt the full might of Calvin Stephenson and failed to halt Murton's title challenge.

Stephenson, formerly with Crook Town, hit 11 sixes and 12 boundaries in a whirlwind unbeaten innings of 126. He shared an unbroken second-wicket partnership with Richard Lowes (51 not out) as Murton hurried to 201-1 before declaring after only 27 overs.

Despite a good contribution of 74 from Mark Donnelly, the Park never threatened and were bowled out for 144 as Stephenson completed a memorable man-of-the-match performance by taking 4-28.

Murton had a double reason for celebrating as nearest rivals Peterlee were held to a draw by lowly Boldon CA. Indeed, the championship contenders were close to defeat with their last pair at the wicket nowhere in sight of Boldon's 185.

Jason Jones (48), Lee Jackson (39), Karl Bellerby (37) and Gary Lincoln with 33 all produced form as Boldon almost caused a big upset.

An unbeaten century by captain David Hanson failed to earn Hylton victory at Easington where the visitors posted 200 for the loss of six wickets.

Ashley Cooper batted throughout Easington's reply making an undefeated 50 and when James Robson carried his bat for 64, the home side were well placed at 168-3 when time was called.

Bill Quay hurried to a ten-wicket win at Houghton. Ian Gutteridge, with 6-43 from 14 overs, restricted the home side to 130 before Michael Strange (54 not out) and Jeff Tudor (66 not out) needed only 24.3 overs securing victory.

The runs flowed when Ryhope entertained Dawdon. Bobby Stephenson led Dawdon to 224-9 with 70 and Ryhope were 184-6 at stumps with most of their runs coming from Gary Braithwaite (45) and Phil Bennett (44 not out).

John Spellman junior contributed 32 and Richard Ede 47 not out to the Castle Eden total of 139 before Silksworth went on to win by seven wickets. They needed a steady unbeaten 30 from Stephen Lobban to see them home.