The Northern Alliance Division Two outfit have retained a large percentage of last season's squad, and made a number of summer signings that manager Gareth Allen hopes will be good enough to challenge for honours this year.

Captain Dean Gate has joined from Northern League Prudhoe Town, while Aaron Kah and Mark Davies have signed from Sunday League football, and Gary Newbrook – who was on the books as a youngster at Sunderland – has also put pen to paper.

Striker Stephen Dixon who last season was at Harton and Westoe, has also signed, while the backroom staff has been strengthened, with Gary Jeffries being appointed sssistant manager.

Allen said: "The club had a successful pre-season, and strengthened the squad in a number of areas. There are some excellent teams in our division, so this season will be as tough as ever.

"Everyone is raving about Stobbiswood Welfare being a very good side, likewise with Forest Hall, Wallsend Boys Club and Amble United, so it is going to be tough.

"But the lads have not had the summer off, and are determined to have a successful campaign. Time will tell if we're good enough."