We can confirm this evening that midfielder Stephen Wearne has joined Gateshead on a free transfer.

Wearne joined the Mariners ahead of the current campaign and made ten appearances in all competitions for the Club.

He had a spell away from the Mariners on loan at Torquay United in the National League earlier this season.

The move sees Wearne move back towards his roots in the north-east with the hope of more regular football on a deal until the end of the campaign.

On Wearne’s departure, manager Paul Hurst said: “Stevie had the opportunity to join Gateshead and, having spoken to him, he’s keen to try get some games between now and the end of the season so we have agreed to that.

“It hasn’t quite worked out for him here and he obviously had a loan spell at Torquay where he did quite well and then came back.

“He’s found gametime hard to come by since then, partly down to the formation that we have had, but Stevie has equipped himself well while he has been with us. He’s a nice lad who is popular with the group and we wish him well for the future.

“I’m sure there is a player there, we will certainly be watching with interest and hope that he can go on to have a good and long career.”

Everyone at the Club would like to thank Stephen for his efforts while with the Mariners this season.

UTM