THE last weekend in February proved a milestone one for two of the borough's clubs.

After it, ambitious East Thurrock United stand proudly at the top of the Southern League Division One East while Grays have advanced to the quarter-finals of the FA Trophy for the first time in their history.

Both sides produced stylish victories on Saturday to achieve their targets. Grays travelled to Conference North opponents Altrincham and came away with a great 4-2 victory thanks to goals from Gary Hooper, Stuart Thurgood, John Martin and Leroy Griffiths.

East Thurrock enjoyed a comfortable 5-1 win against Beaconsfield SYCOB at Rookery Hill.

Vinnie John and Gary Dixon both bagged braces for the Rocks, with Danny Hazleden also getting in on the act.

In contrast to the celebrations at the Rec and Rookery Hill, there is little but doom and gloom around Chadfields, where Tilbury slipped to another defeat.

They battled hard and produced at least great chances to revive hopes of escaping the drop but inn the end the Southern league Division One east's bottom club succumbed to a second half goal from Dean Williams.

Aveley travelled to Berkhamsted and looked well on course to bring home a point from a goalless draw until Luigi Rocco popped up with an 88th minute winners for the home side.