Club Statement | Terry Mitchell appointed manager

Blyth Spartans AFC is delighted to confirm the appointment of Terry Mitchell as the club's new first-team manager.

Mitchell arrives at Croft Park following a successful two-year spell as Consett manager, where he guided the club to the FA Vase final at Wembley in May this year. ­

He leaves The Steelman top of the Northern League Division One table, seven points clear of second-placed West Auckland Town.

Mitchell is vastly experienced in coaching and management, holding exemplary qualifications and extensive connections, both in the North East and at national professional football clubs.

Mitchell is a coach in Newcastle United's academy and foundation. Previously, he was assistant manager at Gateshead and Stockport County as well as being director of youth development at Hartlepool United.

He has also enjoyed successful managerial spells at Newcastle Blue Star and West Allotment Celtic, where he led the latter to three Northern Alliance titles in four years, and a place in the Northern League.

Tony Platten, chairman of Blyth Spartans AFC, said: "I am delighted that Terry applied for and has subsequently secured the position as manager.

"I look forward to working with him to stabilise and advance the future of the club.

"His enthusiasm for football and his attention to detail was evident during the interview process.

"That Terry decided to leave a very successful club to come to Blyth demonstrates his determination to manage at the highest level possible"

Welcome to Spartans, Terry!

We'll hear more from our new manager in the coming days.