FA announces league allocations for new season
The FA has announced the make-up of the league’s two divisions for the 2025-26 season.
Northern League Division One and Division Two are at Step 5 and Step 6 of the National League System.
Division One will be made up of 20 teams – two fewer than last season – with the promotion of Redcar Athletic and Blyth Town to Step 4 confirmed. Both Tow Law Town and Seaham Red Star are relegated to Division Two. No teams are relegated from Step 4 into Division One.
Horden CW and Thornaby’s promotion to Division One is confirmed. Both Washington and Bedlington Terriers are relegated from Division Two, with Grangetown Boys Club reprieved from relegation.
AFC Newbiggin and Durham United are promoted into Division Two from the Northern Alliance and the Wearside Leagues respectively. The number of teams in Division Two remains at 22.
League chairman Glenn Youngman said: “We wish Redcar Athletic and Blyth Town all the best with their promotion and congratulations to the other four promoted teams – in particular, we’re delighted to welcome AFC Newbiggin and Durham United to our league.”