Ben won many friends at the Calvert Stadium and impressed us with his performances when he represented us in the 2023-24 season. He went on to join Billingham Synthonia for a short spell before signing for Crook Town.

Now he will be back in the black-and-white stripes as one of new manager Jamie Poole’s first signings.

“I’m really excited about rejoining Northallerton and being part of what looks like a really strong squad,” says Ben. “It’s a club I enjoyed playing for and I know a couple of the players as well.

“I saw how the club struggled last season and at first I wondered whether I wanted to join a possible relegation scrap. But Jamie completely won me over when he told me about the calibre of players he was bringing in.

“I haven’t worked with Jamie before but I know Dale Hopson well and he’s also been very positive about where they hope to take Northallerton next season. I can’t wait for pre-season training to start.”

Ben, who played for Crook against Northallerton in the FA Vase the season before last, has recovered from a freak injury that kept him out for more than a year. “I was having a kickabout with my mates when I tore my ACL,” he says.

“It’s the sort of injury that requires a lot of work and rehab but I’ve completely recovered and I’m ready to restart my career with Northallerton.”

Ben started his Northern League career with Guisborough and has also played in the Wearside League for clubs including Wolviston.

Jamie Poole said: "Ben is a great addition to the squad. He's well known to Northallerton and had a great spell here so it’s wonderful to get him back.

"I’m delighted he’s chosen to come back and with his quality and attributes it’s a massive plus for the Club."