Their 3-0 win against Vocalink Harlow and the arrival of Richard Saunders, a debutant this season, has helped to bring about a change in the Wharfedale side's early-season fortunes.

Garforth, the current title holders, could find it difficult to repeat the success having lost a key player, but Vocalink Harlow have been boosted by a sponsorship deal.

While Collingham, who have been among the front-runners, will find their task harder without Andrew Widdison, who is now at university.

All the changes mean it seems almost certain that the title race will have more than one horse.

Meanwhile Otley's clean sweep over Harlow was not as easy as suggested by the overall result.

Saunders achieved the easiest victory, beating Richard Leonard 9-1 9-4 10-8, but Matt Wood, in beating Steve Smith, had to battle 7-9, 9-6, 6-9, 9-3, 9-3 to secure his win.

Otley's Paul Roberts was also taken to five games by Seth King – 9-6, 9-2, 8-10, 7-9, 9-5.