By Brian Bennett

Ashington FC chairman Brian Shotton could not hide his joy after the Woodhorn Lane club had secured the services of Blyth Spartans legend Robbie Dale.

 
Astonishingly, Dale made over 700 appearances in 18 years for the National League North outfit and Colliers chairman Brian Shotton said: “Obviously I cannot be anything other than delighted that we have signed a player of Robbie’s calibre. I’ve got friends over in Barrow, who have come up against him over the years so when you even get messages from them about the signing it’s great. The news has also attracted a lot of reaction and comment on social media from Ashington and Blyth Spartans fans – a few who have said they will be coming to watch Ashington next season – and I would like to think Robbie is the first confirmed of a number of players the manager (Ian Skinner) is working hard to bring in. It would be nice to think we’ll get a few more over the line so we can add to an already talented squad in what we hope will be a successful 2022-23 season“

 
He continued: “I think the news is something which will make most sit up and take notice and Robbie will definitely add experience to what is still a young squad – and sometimes I think we forget that. We have the likes of Ben Harmison and Paul Robinson playing for us but apart from that there is not a lot of long term experience in the camp and we still have a lot of young lads who haven’t played many years in the league. To add someone of Robbie’s experience and class can only benefit the group.”