Quakers start the pre season friendly programme with an away friendly at Shildon this Saturday (8th July) kicking off at 3pm.

Manager Martin Gray revealed in an interview last week with the official website that he will be using his full squad in the game at Dean Street, so that should mean a first outing in a Darlington strip for new signing Dominic Collins.

It will also mean a return to his previous club for left back David Ferguson, who moved from Shildon in January, and has since played for England C.

Admission prices are £5 for adults and £3 for concessions, car parking is available in the nearby town centre.

The rest of Quakers’ pre season friendly schedule is:

Wednesday 12th July

Newton Aycliffe away, kick off 7.30pm

Monday 17th July

Newcastle United Under 23s (at the Northern Echo Arena) kick off 7.00pm Admission £10 adults, concessions £5. We are led to believe that Newcastle will be sending several players with first team experience, so it should be a great evening.

Friday 21st July

Bishop Auckland away, kick off 7pm

Wednesday 26th July

Gateshead away, kick off 7.30pm

Saturday 29th July

Guiseley away, kick off 3pm

The reserves pre season friendly schedule is:

Saturday 8th July practice match v Under 18s at Eastbourne

Wednesday 19th July Northallerton (a)

Saturday 22nd July Crook Town (a)

Tuesday 25th July Seaham Red Star (a)

Saturday 29th July Guisborough Town (a)