Crook Town manager Dennis Pinkney is hoping to add some much-needed strength to his side before they travel to Peterlee today.

Crook suffered their worst defeat since the war when they were thrashed 10-1 at Billingham Synthonia in midweek, and now Pinkney is hoping to recruit David Styles as his assistant as their position at the bottom worsens - they are eleven points adrift from safety.

"We're having talks with David," he said. "He's told me that he can bring in a few players, which we need at the moment. If he can help us out, that will be great."

Styles has been manager at Whitley Bay when they were in the UniBond League, and briefly at South Shields.

Peterlee, who are fourth in the table, have a doubt over Andrew Bowes, who has a back injury.

Billingham Synthonia, who are second after six straight wins, have their toughest test of the season so far at Bedlington.

Synners, unsurprisingly after their midweek romp, will probably be unchanged, with Lee Flanagan still missing because of suspension, while Bedlington, who are in third palce but with games in hand, could give a debut to keeper Andrew Sams, signed this week from West Auckland as a replacement for Paul O'Connor, who is moving to the USA.

West Auckland take on Brandon in a re-arranged game at Darlington Road.

West are without Dale Anderson and Stephen Rogers, while Brandon are without Andy Purvis, Gary Clark and David Robson.

Jarrow Roofing, who travel to Newcastle Blue Star, will include new midfielder Dean Lonsdale from Peterlee in their line up.

Seaham Red Star, who have lost their last six matches, go to second bottom Hebburn.

Manager Steve Smith could include at least one new signing in his side, which is now fifth from bottom, while David Ross, Chris McCabe and Ian Gallagher all return.

Marske travel to Dunston after switching their game from Mount Pleasant to protect the pitch for their Vase tie next week.

Marske welcome back full back Gary Knight after injury, while striker Ben Thompson could soon be back in action after recovering from an injury which has kept him out all season.

Dunston should be at full strength, except for injured full back Micky Farrey.

Easington, who are third from bottom, are without striker Andy Allen at home to unchanged Guisborough because of injury.

Consett, who go to Chester-le-Street, are strengthened by the return of Alan Batey, but David Young is missing. The club has received an approach from UniBond League club Workington for midfielder Kieron McGinlay.

Chester, who are fourth from bottom, are hoping that Peter Symm can return after injury.

Billingham Town, who are at home to Morpeth, will be without striker Jamie Clark because of injury.

In the second division, leaders Willington face South Shields, and welcome back defender Darren Peacock to a full squad.

Shields are without injured keeper Jon Caffrey, but manager John Gamble is hoping to sign a replacement.

Esh Winning, in second place, will include new midfielder Dave Lee from Prudhoe in their squad at home to Whickham.

Northallerton, who haven't played for a month, are at full strength for their trip to Horden.

Shildon, who have lost their last four games, welcome back Craig Swainston after suspension for their trip to fellow promotion contenders Ashington.

Thornaby expect to have a full squad at home to Penrith, who are still unbeaten in their league this season, but have played only nine matches.

Tow Law take on Durham City at Ironworks Road in their re-arranged Durham Challenge Cup tie. Lawyers will give a fitness test to striker Nigel Bolton, but midfielder Lee Innes returns. City keeper Adam Clementson is ineligible