By Martin Walker
Newton Aycliffe will face two more high-profile fixtures next season, after it was confirmed Durham City will return to the Northern League first division this summer.
The Football Association have confirmed Durham will drop down to the Northern League for the 2012-13 season after they requested a voluntary relegation.
Chairman Austin Carney had said he didn’t want to put the club’s future in jeopardy by playing in the Evostik League – and the FA have now agreed to their wishes.
City left the Northern League four years ago, and won the Evostik First Diviaion North at the first attempt, but then their main sponsor withdrew and they were forced to field a team of untried youngsters in the Premier Division.
Northern League chairman Mike Amos said: “We’re pleased that the FA has been able to help.
“Durham were long standing Northern League members and old friends. They will be warmly welcomed back.”
The FA’s decision means that there will be 23 clubs in the first division next season, with the possibility of 24 if the FA decide to put Darlington in there as well, although Quakers have asked to be placed higher in the Evostik Legaue.
The decision on Darlington is due to be made on Friday – which could be one of the main talking points at the league’s annual dinner at Ramside Hall that night.