Bishop Auckland have been boosted by the news that Shaun Hope has signed a new deal.

Hope was one of the stars of last season, playing in a variety of positions in the centre of defence, midfield and up front.

Manager Brian Honour said: "Shaun had a great season for us. He played in several different roles and did well in all of them."

Bishops, meanwhile, have signed centre half Steve Tobin from Shildon, and he could play for them in a couple of friendlies. Honour is still chasing another centre half and a striker, and is hoping to announce their signings before the friendlies start.

Bishops' pre-season friendlies are: Evenwood (away, 14th July), Marske (away, 17th July), Darlington (home, 20th July), Consett (away, 24th July), Hebburn (away, 27th July), South Shields (away, 31st July), Horden (away, 6th August), Dunston (away, 10th August)

The proposed game between Willington and Bishop Auckland supporters this Saturday has been postponed.

Spennymoor owner Benny Mottram has started a search for players in the absence of a manager. With pre-season training almost upon Moors, Mottram is making enquiries for several players.

He is hoping to sign a north east born midfielder who has been released by Ipswich, while he is also trying to make contact with striker Tommy Raw who played for Moors on loan from Scarborough last season. There are several other players on his list and Mottram said: "I'm making sure we have enough players. I'm also hoping to appoint a manager, but I want to make sure we get the right one."