CHAMPIONS Harrogate will begin their defence of the Hunters ECB Yorkshire Premier League North title with a trip to Sheriff Hutton Bridge in the pick of the opening day fixtures.

Last season’s runners-up York, who ended the 2016 campaign away at Driffield Town, make an immediate return to Kings Mill Road.

Both the newly promoted sides start off with a home game. The York & District Senior League champions Clifton Alliance play host to Scarborough with Easingwold facing an early test of their premier league credentials as they face a visit from Yorkshire Academy.

There’s a local derby for Woodhouse Grange as they travel to Stamford Bridge and Acomb will be looking for a winning start as they entertain Hull.

The season begins on April 22 concluding on September 9 and includes a round of bank holiday fixtures on May 29.