The 38-year-old, who made his 800th career appearance in the Seasiders’ match with Morpeth Town at the weekend, will hang up his boots.

Liddle began his career with Middlesbrough before moving to Hartlepool United where he racked up 317 appearances across three spells (one on loan). After his first lengthy period at Victoria Park, he went on to play a whole host of Football League games for Notts County, Bradford City, Chesterfield, Carlisle United and Walsall.

Manager Nathan Haslam brought him to the Towbar Express Stadium in the summer of 2024 after spells in non-league at South Shields and Spennymoor Town, and he made 15 appearances in the Town defence.

He took on the managerial reigns in October following Haslam’s departure from the club and this will now be his sole focus with the Seasiders.

Everyone at Whitby Town would like to congratulate Liddle on an illustrious playing career and the club will continue to support him in his managerial role at the club.