CHRIS HUNTER and Gary Brown have tonight joined South Shields, bringing an end to their time with Darlington.

Brown announced his departure last weekend, whereas Quakers this week stated that Hunter had been retained.

However, South Shields have this evening confirmed that both defenders have joined the ambitious South Tyneside club.

Brown told South Shields' official website: “I’m buzzing to be here.

“It’s a new challenge for me and I’m really looking forward to it.

“The phonecall from Lee Picton and Graham Fenton came really early, as soon as they found out I was available.

“They were really hungry to get me here and the club is a great fit for me.

“It has got a great fanbase, it’s a great club and it’s moving in the right direction.

“I was very excited to come and be part of it.”

Hunter had been with Quakers since 2013, but missed most of this season with an ankle injury.

He told outh Shields' : “I’m very pleased to be here.

“I’ve been at Darlo for five years, and it will be nice to come and play for my hometown club eventually.

“All of my friends and family come and watch, so it will be nice to play in front of them here.

“The fans want another promotion and it’s up to the players to do it for them.”