The Northern League have announced that West Auckland and Hebburn Town will play out their season opening game in the JR Cleator Cup.

The game will take place at West Auckland's ground on Saturday 24th July for a 3pm kick off.

The JR Cleator Cup acts as a Community Shield for the Northern League and is traditionally played between champions of Division One and the winners of the League Cup.

However, due to league restructuring, this was not possible. Hebburn Town won the FA Vase which is why they have been selected for tie.

Meanwhile, the Northern League have announced changes to cup competitions ahead of a return to competitive action next season.

Teams from Division One and Two will compete in the Brooks Mileson Memorial League Cup while teams from Division Two will play in the Ernest Armstrong Cup.

All games in both cup competitions will be play in knockout form. They'll go straight into a penalty shootout if the scores are level after 90 minutes.

Northern League Chairman Glen Youngman said: “We’re delighted that we are able to organise a fixture to kick-off the new season and we’re grateful to both Hebburn Town and West Auckland for agreeing to take part.

“If all goes according to plan with the Government’s pandemic roadmap, we’ll be able to welcome fans in and it will be great to see spectators at our grounds again.”