Arrival | Thackray signs on permanent deal

Blyth Spartans are delighted to announce Kris Thackray has signed on a permanent basis until the end of the season following a successful loan spell. 

The 31-year-old initially joined a month's loan from our Northumberland counterparts Morpeth Town but has instantly become a key figure at Croft Park. 

Since his debut in the FA Trophy tie at Stockport County, the former Newcastle United youngster has appeared in all six of Spartans' National League North fixtures.

His partnership with Jack Sanders, on loan from Wigan Athletic, contributed to Blyth's upturn in form over recent weeks - including wins at Gateshead and Kidderminster Harriers.

But it isn't just his defensive work that has caught the eye.

Thackray has already found the net twice, making it 2-1 at the International Stadium on Boxing Day before scoring a stunning free-kick at Altrincham in midweek.

"I'm really, really pleased to sign for Blyth Spartans," Thackray said. "It's a great club. I bonded with the lads and the management straight away.

"I was happy at Morpeth and there are some brilliant people there, on and off the pitch. In fact, if Blyth hadn't shown interest, I'd have been happy to stay there. 

"I've certainly no hard feelings towards Morpeth. I struggled a bit there with a hamstring and calf injury in the same leg and I came back too soon but it's fine now.

"Now, I'm looking to the future helping try to keep Blyth up and then to push on next season."