Golf: Wearside off to a flier in the Maxim North Durham Union League

Relegated from the top flight last year, the Coxgreen club opened their Second Division campaign in style, handing out a 13-1 defeat to visitors Houghton in an opening-night derby.

Wearside will look for a second win at Ravensworth next midweek, while Houghton entertain South Moor.

Division One champions Durham City began their title defence with an even bigger victory, crushing Consett 14-0, while Seaham, third last season, saw off visitors Boldon 12-2.

Seaham are away to Consett next Tuesday.

Newly-promoted Brancepeth Castle rocked Chester-le-Street with a crushing 12-2 away victory to show they mean business this summer.

In Division Three, Washington, third last year, opened with a close-fought 8-6 success at Birtley, while Whitburn drew with newcomers City of Newcastle.

Results, Division One: Chester-le-Street 2 Brancepeth Castle 12, Durham City 14 Consett 0, Heworth 6 Ramside Hall A 8, Seaham 12 Boldon 2

Div Two: Hobson 7 Crook 7, South Moor 12 Ryton 2, South Shields 11 Ravensworth 3, Wearside 13 Houghton 1

Div Three: Birtley 6 Washington 8, Ramside Hall B 12 Beamish Park 2, Whickham 10 Garesfield 4, Whitburn 7 City of Newcastle 7