Bishop Auckland have re-signed midfielder Stuart Irvine for another season.

Despite playing from midfield, the former Hartlepool player was the club's leading scorer last season and his goals helped Bishops to promotion into the UniBond Premier.

Manager Brian Honour said: "We're delighted he's stopping, because he's so important for us."

Meanwhile, Honour is making some progress in trying to sign two players. He won't disclose names, but says a striker he wants has considerable Football League experience, and may play in a pre-season friendly.

Gateshead have announced the appointment of its new chairman, Mick Harland.

Following months of uncertainty as to whether the club would survive, the appointment of Harland has given the club a fresh and optimistic start.

A Gateshead-born businessman, Harland is a former professional with Gateshead and the club says he'll bring in a dedicated team of affiliates and a new structure to secure the club's future.

Harland said: "I am optimistic and believe Gateshead has all it takes to put itself back on the map."