The FA have announced the National League System club allocations for 2025-26 at Steps 2 to 6 including the make up of the Ebac Northern League.
Champions Redcar Athletic and Blyth Town are promoted to Step 4 while the bottom two sides, Tow Law Town and Seaham Red Star, are relegated to the Second Division. They are replaced by Second Division champions Horden CW and Thornaby. With no teams relegated from Step 4 (Northern Premier League East Division) the First Division reverts to 20 teams which was the case in 2023/24.
The Second Division remains at 22 teams with AFC Newbiggin and Durham United promoted from Step 7 while bottom side Washington are relegated along with Bedlington Terriers who have been demoted due to their ground failing to meet FA requirements.
Fixtures for the new season are due to be released following the League AGM in June.
