Heaton Stannington are delighted to announce the signing of goalkeeper Ollie Basey.

The 22-year-old joins from Newcastle Benfield where he made 16 appearances in all competitions, after moving from Whickham. He previously played for Blyth Spartans and Gateshead, having started his career in the academies of Sunderland and Birmingham City, winning Premier League 2 with the latter.

In his own words, Basey is “a calm goalkeeper that puts confidence and reassurance into my defence with my presence and communication.”

Upon signing for the club, Ollie Basey said:

“⁠I’m very excited to be joining a club with so much potential and ambition to improve. ⁠I’m aware of the recent success this club has had, and when you combine that with some great signings this summer already, it is a very exciting opportunity. I believe with the staff and the team they are building, we should be aiming for playoffs and above.” 

Manager Dean Nicholson said:

“I’m happy to get Ollie in. We have lost Alfie Gordon, so we felt it was important to add quality into the goalkeeping department, which we have done. He’s a big lad, he does the basics really well, and he’s someone I’m sure will be another good addition.”

Heaton Stannington are delighted to announce that former loanee JJ Chrisp has returned to the club on a permanent basis.

The 22-year-old initially joined the club on a 28 day loan from Dunston, making three starts where the club won two and drew one, with JJ scoring a late equaliser at home to Silsden in a 1-1 draw. The deal was consequently extended to the rest of the season, where he went on to make a further 17 starts.

Upon his return to the club, JJ Chrisp said:

“I’m absolutely over the moon to be joining the club permanently. I loved the spell I had here last season. The lads made me feel very welcome, and the fans especially were the reason I wanted to come back: win, lose or draw, they back you 100 per cent, which is something that is needed at a club like this. I think the lads and management all have the same goal, and that’s to finish in the play-offs, which is really the only next step after last year’s highest ever finish.”

When asked about some of his favourite moments from his loan spell, JJ said:

“That week where we beat Matlock, Bradford Park Avenue and Emley… 3 games in 7 days against top opposition. Another one would be Matlock away when Leighton Hopper scored a last minute winner!”

Manager Dean Nicholson said:

“I’m buzzing to get a deal done to sign JJ permanently. It was something we were keen to do the minute he arrived on loan. He fits in with this group and the club so well and we can’t wait to see him again next season.”

Heaton Stannington are delighted to announce that young striker Michael Enwere has signed for the first team, after an impressive year with the Heaton Stan Academy.

The 17-year-old joined the Stan Academy last summer and immediately caught the eye with his abilities and potential. He was part of the side that finished as runners-up in the club’s debut season in the U19 National League. Alongside his junior football, he played senior football with Blyth Town in the Northern Premier League East Division, making four starts and 13 substitute appearances, scoring in a 4-0 win away at North Ferriby, and against the Stan in the Northumberland Senior Cup quarter final, which the Stan won on penalties.

Enwere describes himself as “quick, direct, hard-working and always looking to create chances.”

His step-up to the first team is another proud moment for the Heaton Stan Academy who are dedicated to producing young talent and giving them a platform to pursue a career in senior men’s football.

Upon signing for the club, Michael Enwere said:

“I’m buzzing to sign such an ambitious club with great fans behind it. The project and opportunity to develop really stood out to me. I want to keep improving, help the team succeed and contribute with goals and assists.”

Heaton Stannington assistant manager Andy McBride said:

“I’m really excited to get Michael in with the squad. I’ve worked with him for a few months now in the academy, he has a big ceiling

and he will excite the fans. He is hard working, and a big powerful lad who I can’t wait to see in our environment.”

Heaton Stannington Academy director Carl Chater said:

“Since arriving at the academy last summer, Michael Enwere has made a tremendous impact both on and off the pitch, developing massively in a very short space of time.

Michael played a huge role in what was a highly successful debut season for our U19s in the National League, helping the team secure an impressive runners-up finish. His performances throughout the campaign consistently demonstrated his quality, work ethic, and determination, earning recognition from coaches, teammates, and opponents alike.

His progress did not go unnoticed, and Michael was rewarded with opportunities at senior level, stepping up to play Step 4 football with Blyth Town. Competing in men’s football has been another important stage in his development, and he has continued to show maturity and confidence beyond his years.

Following his outstanding progress over the past season, Michael has now earned his place within our senior men’s team — a fantastic achievement and a reflection of the commitment and attitude he has shown since joining the academy.

Everyone at the club is incredibly proud of Michael and all that he has achieved so far, and we look forward to supporting him as he continues his journey and development in the game.”