Darlington last night agreed to sign goalkeeper Mark Bell from West Auckland, while they have released Jack Norton.

Manager Martin Gray had wanted to sign Bell since the summer, and has finally got his man.

He played under Harry Dunn - Quakers' chief scout - when manager at Blyth Spartans and will make his debut in Saturday's Northern League game at Durham City.

Bell was West's first-choice keeper and played against Quakers when Martin Gray's side lost 2-1 at Darlington Road last month.

"He's very well thought of in the Northern League and I'm absolutely delighted to sign him," said Gray.

"With Craig Turns in the squad as well, we've got two very good keepers."

Norton began the season as first-choice keeper before losing his place to Craig Turns. However, Turns suffered a shoulder injury two weeks ago meant Norton was handed a brief reprieve.

Norton's exit will not be the last from Gray's squad, as before the weekend another player is likely to leave.