McDonald is a strong and versatile defender or midfielder with experience from captaining Whitley Bay to playing for Berwick Rangers in the Scottish League Second Division.

He has featured 16 times for the Highwaymen since joining from Berwick midway through last season.

McDonald told North Shields` media manager Sean Mulligan: “I’m delighted to sign for North Shields. They’re a very good side and will be an exciting season for the club and hopefully I can contribute to it.”

When asked about linking back up with manager Marc Nash and assistant-manager Anthony Woodhouse, McDonald said: “I am very excited. I had a good year and a half with him and Woody at Whitley Bay before heading North to Berwick. Hopefully this will help me bed into the team well, as I know a few of the lads from previously playing against and with them.”

Manager Marc Nash said: “Chris was my captain at Whitley and played every minute of every game during his spell with us before moving to Berwick.

“Chris has got bags of experience and plenty quality to add the squad. Also known to score the odd 'worldie' with his left peg!”

McDonald goes straight in the squad for Saturday's game against Sunderland Ryhope CA.