Guiseley’s short trip to take on Harrogate Town in a Blue Square Bet North Division derby failed to get the go ahead after a morning pitch inspection at Town’s CNG Stadium.

Harrogate are behind with their fixtures after being dogged by home postponements since work on their pitch in the close season failed to solve drainage problems.

The pitch underwent a 9.30am inspection but the local referee was unsure so they waited until 11am to take a second look before deciding it was unfit for play.

It was a disappointment to the Lions, who were looking to make up ground on leaders Chester FC. Steve Kittrick’s men are in second place but are now 17 points off top spot, however, it could have been worse as Chester were held to a goalless draw at home by third-placed Brackley Town.

Guiseley now have five games in hand on Chester so it was not a bad weekend, although they had hoped to get their two new signings involved.

The Lions snapped up Phil Marsh, a 26-year-old forward, and Jake Lawlor, a 21-year-old midfielder, on Friday and were hoping the transfers would go through in time for the Harrogate game.

Guiseley were due to play FC Halifax Town in the league on Tuesday but Town head to Dartford for an FA Trophy replay on Wednesday so the match is postponed.