NEHL - A cricket match was played on the Durham-Yorkshire border between the gentlemen of West Auckland and Scruton in Yorkshire. It took place in 1773, and was played for 25 guineas a side. It was "the best of three in-gates, which was won by the former, they getting the first two. The odds were greatly on the Yorkshire side before starting. West Auckland will play any town or parish within 50 miles round for the same sum".

The above piece was recorded in the Whitehall Evening Post, and indicates cricket was played in this area before 1773. However, this is the first recorded location. The exact site is not known.

Credit to the excellent publication "Cream Teas and Nutty Snacks" by Jack Chapman for the information.