YORKSHIRE League North sides suffered mixed fortunes as their cricket season began with the first round of the Royal London Club Championship.

With the opening round of league matches put back due to wet weather, teams made their 2018 bow in the regional section of the national comp.

Stamford Bridge hosted Barnard Castle and a 63-run stand between new signings Adam Sutcliffe (31) and Chris Grey (55) provided the basis from which they were able to reach 204-7, Ryan McKendry (35) and Max Maciver (43) also contributing to a strong batting performance.

The visitors' reply began with opener Alasdair Appleby making 45 but he lacked support, with only two other batsmen reaching double figures as the Bridge trio of Max Maciver (3-12), Ryan Gibson (2-23) and McKendry (3-12) helped to secure a commanding 89-run victory.

Bridge will host Brandon in the second round.

Sessay, the 2017 York & District Senior League champions, marked an impressive competition debut with victory at Yorkshire South Premier League club Barnsley Woolley Miners.

Mark Jackson (41) and Joseph Watson (61) put on 95 for the second wicket as the visitors scored 227-7 from their 40 overs.

Home skipper Matthew Higgins scored 73 before becoming one of three victims for Stephen Wagstaff (3-32) as Barnsley fell short by 65 runs.

Sessay host Chesterfield in round two.

Clifton Alliance put up a fight against Richmondshire despite being bowled out for 122. Several batsmen made starts but only Samuel Grant went on, eventually reaching 40.

Despite the low total, the home side refused to lie down and early wickets from Grant (2-14) helped to reduce the visitors to 25-4. Scott Hopkinson (2-17) also finished with two wickets but, from 60-5, the visitors held firm to win by five wickets with four overs to spare.

The victors will be joined in the next round by Woodhouse Grange, who host Cleethorpes, and York, who entertain Stockton, both clubs having received byes in the opening round.

The matches will take place on Sunday, May 13.