A Tynedale footballer has been looking back on his career after deciding to retire from the sport.

Graeme Armstrong, who is also a PE teacher at Hexham’s Queen Elizabeth High School, has competed for a number of teams throughout his long career and also featured for Hebburn Town at Wembley last month in the final of the 2019/20 FA Vase.

When asked what some of his career highlights were, Armstrong explained there’s a few he remembers fondly.

“There are a couple that spring to mind.” said Armstrong.

“I was lucky to play for some outstanding teams in my career, but I won back to back promotions with both Darlington and Gateshead.

“The second promotion at Darlington, I managed to score a hat trick on the night to get us promoted in front of 3000 fans who were crammed into Whitby’s ground.

“The promotion to the National League with Gateshead was a huge achievement and went on to be the highest level I managed to play.

“Ultimately, the Wembley final was one I’ll never forget, and a fantastic way to finish my career.”

Armstrong also went on to explain his decision to retire from the sport, with several factors having all played a part in making his decision.

“I have had it in the back of my mind for a while to be honest, I’ve played 21 years as a semi pro and it takes longer to recover from games now,” he added.

“Additionally, Hebburn got promoted this year which would’ve meant more travelling around the country.

“I have a young family - Jacob (who’s) 2 and Sophia (who’s) 7 months - and it gets harder and harder to leave them to go to football.

“I recently lost my work colleague and best friend, Chris Scott, and it makes you realise the importance of spending that time with family and friends, so I have just decided to retire and devote my life to watching them grow up.”

The 37-year-old, who has played for a number of non-league North East teams throughout his career including South Shields, Darlington, Blyth Spartans and Gateshead, has decided now is the correct time to call it a day on his career.