Defender Andre Bennett, son of Sunderland legend Gary, moves to the Wanted Stadium.

He was originally on the books at SkyBet Championship side Middlesbrough where he progressed through the under-18s to the under-21s and took in a loan spell with Gateshead whilst on the Riverside books.

He signed for West Auckland`s neighbours and league rivals Bishop Auckland upon his release by Middlesbrough in the summer of 2016.

A spell in Australia with Mornington saw him come back to have a duel registration with Whitley Bay in the Northern League and Whitby Town in the Northern Premier League Premier Division last season.

West Auckland have also announced the return of attacking midfielder or forward Callum Patton.

The 26-year-old from Sunderland represented English Colleges and is known for his aggressive attacking play and tough tackling.

He joined Whitby for a second spell in November 2018 from Bishop Auckland, re-uniting with brother Kyle, who he also played with at Whitley Bay.

He also numbers Chester-le-Street, Gateshead, Durham City, Sunderland RCA and Whitley Bay amongst his other former clubs.

The third signing is Michael Hoganson, who has made the short trip from

Bishop Auckland.

The left back has previous experience in the Championship for Derby County and came through Newcastle United`s under-18s.

He was in Spennymoor Town’s squad at the start of the 2019/20 season before joining Bishops.