SHERIFF Hutton Bridge have a four-point lead at the top of the first division of the Pilmoor Evening Cricket League.

Meanwhile, it seems a three-horse race at the top of the second division, where Huby are two points clear of Rowntrees who lost to Sheriff Hutton who are now in contention.

Division one toilers Stillington put up an improved display at home to Sheriff Hutton Bridge. A Carrick made an unbeaten 51 to help Bridge to 108-6, S Dissanayake (4-31) the most successful home bowler. Wayne Linton hit an unbeaten 53 as Stillington closed on 92-3 to lose by 16 runs.

At home to Thirsk, Alne reached 101-3 with Fran Raper unbeaten on made 54.

Thirsk lost wickets regularly to Tom Ryder (2-23) and Sean Kenny (3-10) but Australian Gary Kelson held the innings together with an unbeaten 66 to take them to victory at 104-7.

Crayke got back to winning ways when they beat Newburgh. Peter Carr (41) and Dave Allitt (26) were the principal scorers in their 113-6, T Banks (2-23) and A Bailey (2-25) having the best returns.

Rob Proudley top scored with 24 in the reply, but the innings fell away to 66 all out against the bowling of Clive Baker (2-18), Robert Dawson (2-11) and Carr who took a superb 3-4.

In the second division, Huby remain top after beating Raskelf.

Their batsmen again excelled, Sam Portrykus making 70 and Chris Cundall an unbeaten 62 in a 172-3 total. Mark Swales then took 3-15 and Gary Turgoose 2-30 as Raskelf closed on 125-9.

Sheriff Hutton moved into serious contention for promotion when they won at Rowntrees. Ben Tompkins with 58 and Harry Faith (37no) did most to take them to 116-2. Rowntrees replied with 85-5, Mike Jones making 25 and Martin Horwell 22.

Helperby had their first win of the season when they overcame Clifton Alliance. Alliance batted first and made 112-5.

But Helperby claimed victory by reaching 113-3.

Updated: 11:40 Wednesday, June 18, 2003