BURYTHORPE have taken a firm grip on the leadership of the first division of the Horwath Pulleyn Heselton York Vale League.

They notched a 66-run over CGU and are now firm favourites to retain their top flight title.

Aldby Park, who were able to field a full strength side for the first time this season, beat Stockton & Hopgrove by 116 runs and will be looking to challenge the top two teams in the closing weeks of the season.

In division two Thixendale stunned second placed Hemingbrough beating them by six wickets to open up the promotion race.

Ovington are well clear at the top, bu there are four sides in contention for the second promotion place.

At the other end of the table Woodhouse Grange are in trouble and need a change of fortune if they are to avoid the drop.

Wilberfoss have struggled these last few weeks with an acute shortage of players through holidays, sprains and broken bones, but are hopeful of finishing their last season in the Vale League in a blaze of glory.

Because of technical difficulties it has not been possible to publish a full league round-up today. It will be published in tomorrow's Evening Press with full results and tables.