Champions handed home start on opening day of North East Premier League campaign

Champions Chester-le-Street have been handed a home match on the opening daty of the North East Premier League's Premier Division 2017 season.

By The Newsroom

Published 21st Dec 2016, 09:00 BST

Updated 29th Dec 2016, 14:12 BST

Whitburn bat against Chester-le-Street this year. The sides meet again on April 15

Whitburn, who finished eighth last season, will visit Ropery Lane on Saturday, April 15.

Hetton Lyons start at home to South Shields, who were one point better off than the Lilywhite Terrace outfit last term, while Eppleton, who were second-bottom this year, begin with a tough trip to Newcastle, who were runners-up.

Division One newcomers Burnopfield start at relegated Gateshead Fell, while Sunderland entertain Mainsforth at Ashbrooke.

Opening day fixtures (April 15) – Premier Division: Benwell Hill v Tynemouth, Chester-le-Street v Whitburn, Felling v Durham Academy, Hetton Lyons v South Shields, Newcastle v Eppleton, South Northumberland v Stockton

Division One: Brandon v Boldon, Burnmoor v Blaydon, Gateshead Fell v Burnopfield, Sunderland v Mainsforth, Washington v Sacriston, Willington v Seaham Harbour