Willington were bitterly disappointed when a near 100-year membership of the Arngrove Northern League ended with relegation last May but after racking up three consecutive victories, they are in with a chance of an immediate return.

Successive wins over Boldon CA and Ferryhill Athletic raised the hopes of manager Mark Fanning and his rejuvenated side were comfortable winners at New Marske. Gary Mitchell scored all his side's goals in a 4-1 victory.

His first strike came as he headed in at the far post from a cross by youngster Danny Lee.

Any hopes the Seasiders had of fighting their way back into the game ended early in the second half with identical goals from Mitchell. On two occasions he ran at the defence before slotting the ball wide of the home goalkeeper to complete his hat-trick.

There was a temporary respite for New Marske when Paul Harrison hit home from 18 yards. Mitchell completed a memorable day with his fourth goal.

There is no change at the top of the table after leaders Birtley Town drew with second-placed Cleadon SC at Jack Clark Park.

It took 76 minutes to break the deadlock as Stephen Hamil penetrated the home defence but Birtley's joy was short-lived.

Within four minutes Cleadon gained an equaliser through Danny Nixon to leave them five points off the top, but with three games in hand.

Teesside Athletic are enjoying a first season in the league and moved into fifth position with a 2-0 success at Coxhoe Athletic.

Michael Traynor's effort took a deflection on its way in for the opening goal on 35 minutes and Stephen Hodgson netted a second with 20 minutes remaining.

Ferryhill Athletic also lost by 2-0 at Windscale. Despite attacking for most of the second period, Ryhope CW went down to an only goal at home to Cleator Moor Celtic. Craig Padley struck in the 47th minute.

Waterlogged grounds prevented any play in four fixtures scheduled to be played at Boldon CA, Harton and Westoe, Jarrow and Wolviston.