THE FA have confirmed the make-up of both divisions of the Ebac Northern League for next season, with Shildon and North Shields returning to the fold.

The two clubs’ relegation from the Northern Premier League East has been confirmed, meaning they will find themselves in Northern League Division One next term.

Sunderland RCA’s relegation from the top-flight has been overturned because of resignations and a voluntary relegation in other leagues, meaning they have received a top-flight reprieve thanks to their point-per-game rating.

Boro Rangers and Birtley Town have been promoted to the top-flight of the Northern League from Division Two, but Pickering Town leave the league as they have been moved to the Toolstation Northern Counties East League.

Thornaby’s relegation to Division Two has been confirmed, while Sunderland West End have received a reprieve despite finishing in one of the relegation positions. West End survive as one of the best second-bottom placed clubs at their level, ranked according to points-per-game. Willington did not survive, however, and will spend next season in the First Division of the Wearside League.

Three teams were promoted to the Second Division of the Northern League from feeder leagues – FC Hartlepool, Newcastle Blue Star and Yarm & Eaglescliffe.

The Northern League’s management committee has decided that both the Brooks Mileson Memorial League Cup and the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup will be held in the 2023-24 season. The draws for the preliminary and first rounds will take place at the league’s AGM on June 17.

The Cleator Cup, the traditional season opener, will be contested by the winners of last season’s two divisions, meaning Newton Aycliffe will take on Boro Rangers.