Darlington FC would like to announce that long serving striker David Dowson has tonight left the club and joined neighbours Spennymoor.

Dowsa was one of the first players whom manager Martin Gray signed when he rebuilt the team in the Northern League in the summer of 2012. During his four seasons with us in which he has won promotion twice, scoring 45 goals in total, the most memorable being the late winner against Spennymoor in the play off semi final last season. In recognition of his excellent service, he has been allowed to leave on a free transfer.

Many argue that his goal against Spennymoor was the most memorable at Heritage Park for Darlington, and caused a huge spike of hits on the official website over the next 24 hours with people logging on to watch the TV coverage of his winner.

He will never be forgotten by Darlo fans, and we wish him all the best in the future, and we hope that he helps Spennymoor to promotion.

Darlington manager Martin Gray said; “David has been with me since day one, and he’s been with us through two promotions and a play off semi final.

“I can’t speak highly enough of him, he is one of the best players I’ve ever dealt with in terms of attitude and discipline. I really couldn’t have asked for more.

“He has been a great servant to this club, and he’ll be very well-received whenever he comes back.”

Dowsa has signed a two and a half year contract with Moors, and manager Jason Ainsley said; “David Dowson has tonight signed on a two and half year deal from Darlington. David is a player I've always admired every time he has played against us, He is a fans favourite wherever he goes and his work rate and movement are exceptional. He has been instrumental in Darlington's progress so far and I hope he scores the goals to take us into the play-offs. “His signing shows the ambition of the club.”

Dowsa added : “I enjoyed my time at Darlington being part of two promotions and making many memories but now I'm looking forward to the new challenge with Spennymoor Town and going for another promotion.”