Ryton & Crawcrook Albion can confirm that captain Callum Turnbull has decided to leave the club this summer after 11 years at Kingsley Park.

The 32-year-old forward-turned-defender, who joined the club from university outfit Team Northumbria in 2011, went on to make 327 appearances for RACA scoring 55 goals.

He captained the team to the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup last month in what turned out to be his final game – scoring in the penalty shootout in the final against Newcastle University in Birtley.

Vice-captain for many years, Turnbull succeeded David Below as club captain in 2020 and is now one of the club’s longest serving players in the Northern League.

“Everyone at Ryton & Crawcrook Albion would like to place on record our thanks to Callum for all he has done for this football club since joining over a decade ago,” read a statement from the Committee and Management.

“He has been an outstanding player, inspirational captain and has always demonstrated loyalty and an exceptional commitment to the cause.

“He will always be held in the highest regard by everybody at Kingsley Park and lifting the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup – the club’s first trophy in many years – in his final act as an Albion player was a fitting way to finish.

“We wish him well with whatever he decides to do next and look forward to welcoming him back in the future.

“Callum Turnbull: Captain. Leader. Legend.”

In his farewell message, Turnbull said: “Thank you to everyone involved with the club over the years. I’ll be sad to leave so many great people… It’s been an absolute pleasure.

“It’s the right time for me to go and the club’s in a great position to challenge for promotion next year. What better way to leave than with the cup final win!!!

“Up the RACA! 🔵⚫️”