Gateshead relegated to National League North after financial breaches

Gateshead have been relegated to National League North following an appeal over their suspension from the National League.

The financially troubled club were suspended last month after breaking financial rules and could have been made to play outside the fifth or sixth tier after being refused a licence.

But, having got new owners, Gateshead have been demoted just one level.

Their relegation means Aldershot will stay in the fifth tier.

The Shots had been relegated after finishing fourth from bottom. Their return to the National League means Oxford City will stay in National League South, having originally moved to National League North.

Gateshead ended the season in ninth place, but were docked nine points to finish in 17th. They were also fined £3,500 at a disciplinary hearing, which also found the club guilty of failing to obtain security of tenure over their ground.