Mark Bell Signs Contract

Prior to Saturday's game with Stafford Rangers, Blyth Spartans goalkeeper Mark Bell put pen to paper on a deal that will see the Bishop Auckland based stopper stay at Croft Park for this season, as well as the 2009/2010 campaign.

Signed from West Auckland, the 'keeper has had a fine first season with the club, capped by a few stunning displays in front of the Setanta cameras and has settled straight into the club.

Chairman Tony Platten commented "we are delighted that Mark has signed his contract with the club, we are keen to ensure that the spine of the team is in place as soon as possible for the start of next season's campaign and clearly Mark is one of the players that we want to keep, here at Croft Park."

Mark's next challenge is to oust young back up goalkeeper Paul Farman from the starting XI who has performed admirably in nets during the more experienced 'keepers recent absence through a broken finger.