Hebburn Town confirm three departures, including star forward

Purewal will leave the club alongside long-serving midfielder Robbie Spence and versatile right-sided player Joe Walton, who has taken over as player-manager of Northern League Division Two side Sunderland West End.

Hornets captain Purewal ends his five-year association with the club, having scored 82 goals in 178 appearances.

He helped the club to FA Vase glory in May 2021, scoring in their 3-2 victory over Consett at Wembley.

Purewal's 30 goals in 40 appearances also helped fire the club to the NPL East Division title and subsequent promotion to Step 3 during the 2023/24 season.

That was one of two promotions Purewal enjoyed during his time at the club, with further silverware coming in the shape of the Durham Challenge Cup.

Likewise, Spence has been part of many of the club's recent successes over the last seven years.

In total, he featured more than 250 times in Hebburn colours, scoring 31 times, and was an integral part of the club's rise through the non-league ranks.

Paying tribute to both players, CEO Stephen Rutherford said: “Amar is a great bloke and a cracking player who has done very well for the club during his time here.

"Together we have made some tremendous memories that will last a lifetime. He has been a great servant and a true professional, and we thank him for his commitment and dedication to the club over the years.

"Although offered a new deal, Amar shared that due to reasons outside of football it was better for him to explore other opportunities that enabled him to embark on other ventures.

"He also shared it was a very tough decision, but it has to be right for him and his family. The club understands it's semi-professional football, and we fully support his decision.

"Robbie has been part of the club since the takeover. He’s been very much an influential part of what we have achieved.

"It’s been great to be part of his journey as we have progressed together, creating some fantastic memories.

"He’s a great lad and player. It’s sad to see a player that’s been with us for so long leave, but that’s football."

The third of Hebburn's confirmed departures is the versatile Walton, who featured 34 times in all competitions for the Hornets last season - primarily at right-back. 

He spent a total of three seasons with the club but has opted to take his first steps into management, joining a Sunderland West End side hoping to build upon their highest-ever finish in the Northern League Division Two table.