of the Northern League could continue with 22 clubs. Season 2008–09 proved to be better both on and off the pitch and the club entered a groundsharing agreement with West Auckland Town. Whilst the league campaign got off to a disastrous start, the club's plans for a new ground were given the go-ahead in November, but the club were rooted to the bottom of the league. The board decided to take action and a new manager, Colin Myers, was appointed in February. Prior to Colin's first game the Blues were ten points adrift of safety. Over the next twenty games the team gained 26 points to eventually finish the season in 18th place – seven points clear of the relegation zone. A truly remarkable turnaround with only a few additions to the playing squad. Season-by-season record First team squad Players out on Dual Registration Players Dual signed with First team and Resevres Youth set up Bishop Auckland F.C currently have an Under 23s who completed their first season in the Durham County FA U23's League South Division, this team leads to a number of players making the step up to the Bishop's first team. Bishop Auckland FC also has an under 18s team who won the league in their only season TJFA Division 1. The under 18s will take part in the FA Youth Cup this is the first time the club has ever had a team enter the FA Youth Cup, The Under 18s made their FA Youth Cup Debut on Thursday 2 September, Drawing 1–1 against Workington with Alex O'Hagan scoring, but then losing 3–2 on Penalties The Former Under 18s team became Bishop Auckland XI joining the Wearside league 3, to give young players a chance to get senior football experience while keeping them in the Bishop's system. Bishops are closely connected to St Mary's FC who are seen by everyone as their youth set up. In recent times, a number of players have made debuts coming through the whole set-up, such as former player Darren Richardson, but a number of players joined later and have gone on to sign for the club. Backroom staff Board members Bishop Auckland Ladies Bishop Auckland Ladies are the Official Ladies Team for Bishop Auckland FC. Formed in May 2013, Bishop Auckland Ladies Development Team was set up in May 2015, with the aim to provide female players, a place to