Spennymoor Town have announced the signing of former Darlington defender Joe Tait.

The centre-back has penned a two-year contract at the Brewery Field having left Gateshead where he moved to 12 months after leaving Darlington.

He returned to Quakers on loan midway through last season and was part of the team that ended the season in the play-offs, which ultimately ended in defeat meaning Darlington remain in the Evo-Stik First Division.

Tait said: “The enthusiasm and professionalism I got from the manager and the chairman made it a no-brainer.

“This is where I want to play my football and I can’t wait to get started and pay back the backing and support I’ve received from everyone at the club.”

As Town were promoted from the Northern League in May, Tait is likely to face his former team-mates during the forthcoming season.

Spennymoor boss Jason Ainsley said: “To bring a player of Joe’s calibre to Spennymoor Town on a two-year contract speaks volumes of the progression we have made under the chairmanship of Brad Groves.

“Centre half was a position we have been looking at for a long time and we are delighted to have Joe on board alongside Jonno and Mase.

“Joe has played at higher levels throughout his career and will be a massive presence both on and off the pitch, he is a natural leader which has impressed me whenever I have watched him play for Darlington and we wish him every success with us.”

Meanwhile, the exits from Darlington of Jonny Davis and Ian Ward have been confirmed. David has returned to Durham while Ward has signed a contract with Celtic Nation.

Darlington being pre-season training this evening and their first friendly is on Saturday, July 12 at Newcastle Benfield.