Bishops pounce to snap up Washington striker

Striker Chris Winn (red) has joined Bishop Auckland from Washington

The hard-working frontman, a key man for the Mechanics since joining from Dunston UTS in November 2013, is one of five new signings announced by boss Steve Riley.

The two Blues have also captured Dunston defender Scott Martindale and midfielder Alex Francis, South Shields keeper Scott Pocklington, Norton striker Ryu Williamson and Spennymoor midfield prospect Lee Moore.

Former Washington midfielder Michael Coughlan has joined Newcastle Benfield from Jarrow Roofing, plus Bishop Auckland’s Scott McCarthy.

Freed Spennymoor Town midfielder Anthony Peacock has joined Billingham Synthonia along with Consett’s Nathan Steel and Chay Liddle (Guisborough).

Two more ex-Spennymoor players, defender Paul Johnson and striker Liam Henderson, have signed for FA Vase winners Morpeth Town, plus Blyth Spartans pair Paul Robinson and Damon Mullen.

Ryhope CW have lined up a friendly trip to Leeds in pre-season. Gary Pearson’s side will head to West Yorkshire League outfit Leeds Modernians on Saturday, July 30.

Newly-promoted Ryhope, preparing for a first season in Northern League Division One, also head to Stockton Town (July 20), Crook Town (July 23) and Billingham Town (July 27).

Sunderland RCA have added a friendly at Team Northumbria (July 23) to the games reported in Saturday’s Echo.