LEWIS GALPIN has left Gateshead to join West Auckland Town on a permanent basis.
The defender has been on loan with West since the start of the season and has been featuring at centre-back for the Northern League side.
Speaking about his decision to quit the Heed for good and continue his career with West, he said: “After making eight starts last season I had hoped to be number two left-back this season and to get the chance to kick on
“I have been training all week with Gateshead as a non-contract player and it was tough then training with West Auckland on a Tuesday and Thursday.
“I wasn’t enjoying it anymore and couldn’t see another opportunity coming up for me at Gateshead so it was best to leave.
“The new manager has only seen me in training but he has accepted my decision and wished me all the best for the future.”