Tute the star as Clifton's lead cut

For the hosts, Des Wyrill made 31 off 52 balls and Tom Stead 32 not out of 35 but tight bowling by Matt Coad, who took 3-20 in 11 overs, and Steve Walmsley, whose 16-over stint earned him 3-28, restricted the home side to 157-8.

Walmsley then made 32 in an opening stand of 84 with Rob Nicholson, who progressed to 71 not out as he and Matt Pickles (36no) ensured a win for The Royals.

Batting first at Beverley, Fenner lost a wicket with the first ball of the game when Graham Williamson was bowled by Alex Morrell.

However, they then enjoyed a 106-run partnership for the third-wicket which was dominated by Dominic Rhodes, who hit 77, as Steve Sargeant made 29.

Fenner suffered three run-outs but had their total lifted to 206-6 in a 47-over game by Will Rhodes, who completed his unbeaten 50 off the last ball of the innings.

Beverley's reply was spearheaded by Jamie Mitchell, who made an undefeated 60. Assistance was provided by Jonathon Fisher (37) and Ian Gilyon (36) before captain Alan Acklam earned his side a valuable 30 points in their bid to avoid relegation by hitting a winning six in the 44th over.

Dunnington were denied the full 30 points as Stamford Bridge batted out in the derby game to deny the hosts a valuable three points in their title tilt.

Harwood Williams seemed to be on course for another three-figure score but fell for 96. Dave Johnson chipped in with 33 and Jack Bolam made 29 as Dunnington moved to 217-8. Dave Chaplin was Stamford's star with the ball in taking 5-26 and then made 84.He was partnered in a fifth-wicket stand of 105 by Phil Hill who made 45. Stamford were prevented from reaching their goal by Dave Johnson, whose 5-61 restricted their reply to 187-8.

Clifton Alliance's lead was reduced when they narrowly failed to overtake Acomb's 198-6 as the latter gained 26 points in their bid to avoid relegation.

Acomb captain Andy Tute was the star when he followed his 34 with a 20-over spell which earned him 7-85 as the championship leaders were restricted to 193-9.

The Hambleton derby at Easingwold saw visiting Sessay gain the better of a draw after posting 206-7 in a 47-over encounter. Chris Cowton hit 51 not out as Jonathon Marwood took 3-60. Martin Piercy made 66 for Easingwold, whose last pair survived the final two overs to reach 179-9 as Richard Till claimed 5-64.