Gary is in his second spell at the club. He was originally signed after just one training session ahead of the Northern League season in the summer of 2012 and was immediately made captain, which turned out to be an inspired move.

He’s recognised as a central defender, but he can also play at full back and in midfield if needed. He joined Darlington after playing for Durham City, Jarrow Roofing and Blyth Spartans in their 2008-09 Conference North days where he was involved in their memorable FA Cup run which saw them reach the third round.

Gary suffered a knee injury in the summer of 2013 and he missed the first five months of the season, but he returned as strong as ever.

He led the team to victory in the NPL First Division play offs in 2014-15, and actually played in goal at Lancaster City along the way.

For family reasons he joined Northern League club Shildon during the summer of 2015, but decided to return to the club four months later, and formed a very strong partnership in the heart of the Darlington defence with Kevin Burgess – the B and B partnership that helped Quakers to win the EvoStik title in season 2016-17

Gary, who is the team’s long throw expert, started 38 games last season, scoring five times.

He had a caretaker spell in charge of the team with Phil Turnbull after Martin Gray left in October 2017.

Stats up to 3rd February 2018

Appearances: League: Full 15, Cups: 1

Goals: League 1

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