Spennymoor have been given a boost by the news that keeper Jim Provatt will be staying with them until the end of the season.

Provatt was one of Tony Lee's first signings when he took over at the Brewery Field at Christmas, and since then has been outstanding between the posts.

Lee said: "We're delighted to have him until the end of the season, but I don't think we'll be keeping him any longer than that.

"He has played some excellent games for us, and again he proved how good a keeper he is last Saturday with some good saves in our game at Belper.

"Chris Turner has been keeping an eye on him while he's been with us, and it wouldn't surprise me if the player is pushing for a first team place next season."

Meanwhile, Bishop Auckland's relegation fight has intensified after two of the midweek results went against them.

Hiucknall, who won at Kingsway last Saturday, won 2-1 at Blyth on Tuesday night to put them just two points behind Bishops with a game in hand.

Frickley also moved six points clear of Bishops after they defeated Worksop 4-0.

Only three other teams are below Bishops now. Bamber Bridge and Hyde occupy the two automatic relegation places, with Whitby in the relegation/promotion play off place

Gateshead full back Simon Bates, who played for several Northern League clubs, has had a setback in his recovery from a knee injury.

He had an operation at the start of the season and complications have now set in, and he is due to have more major surgery in the near future.