THURROCK'S high-flying sides continue to impress in the chance for promotion to the Nationwide Conference.

Grays have now opened up a 13 point gap at the top of the Conference South table thanks to an impressive 3-0 win at promotion hopefuls Basingstoke.

They achieved a comfortable win without ever really exerting themselves and with a depleted side due to illness and injury. Steve West, Vill Powell and Dennis Oli scored their goals.

It now seems only complacency stands in the way of the Blues wrapping up the title.

Thurrock FC continue to chase their derby rivals and moved into third place thanks to a 2-0 win against second placed Lewes.

Tresor Kandol struck after 44 and 78 minutes to give his side a morale-boosting victory after their double festive defeats at the hand of Grays.

In the Southern League Division One East borough sides had mixed fortunes. East Thurrock United's promotion campaign is now firmly back on track after Vinne John popped up with the only goal of the game in the 88th minute at Barton Rovers.

Aveley were beaten 1-0 at home by leaders Fisher but will draw heart from a strong performance. They put up a good fight before succumbing to Anthony Riviere's 74th minute header.

Carl Fannon hit the woodwork in a late Aveley rally.

However there was little to alleviate the gloom for Tilbury who went into their basement battle with Great Wakering Rovers buoyed by a home win against Sittingbourne, but are now marooned seven points behind Wakering, who stay second from bottom despite a 2-0 win.