Darlington manager Martin Gray has pledged his future to the club by penning a new five-year deal.

Assistant manager Brian Atkinson and coach Sean Gregan have also agreed new deals covering the same length of time while talks with Quakers' other backroom staff are planned.

The manager and Quakers' hierachy have been in talks since before the end of the season, and those negotiations have finally reached a successful conclusion.

Gray, who first joined Darlington as a player in 1999, said: "I'm really proud to be manager of this club and I'm delighted to get this contract signed.

"I'm here for the long-term, this is not just a job, and this is a sign of my dedication to the club and hopefully the fans will remain just as dedicated."

Gray became Darlington manager a year ago and in his first season led the club to the Northern League title by breaking a string of records.

Next season Quakers will be in the Evo-Stik First North.

*SEE TOMORROW'S ECHO FOR MORE ON THIS STORY*