Left back Paul Heckingbottom has joined Gateshead on loan until the end of the season.

With limited first team opportunities available to him here, the decision was made to allow the 32-year-old to play on a more regular basis. He will not be allowed to play against us during the Tynesider's visit to Field Mill on Saturday.

Heckingbottom joined us at the start of the season following his release from Bradford City and has made 15 appearances in all competitions scoring one goal in the process.

Manager David Holdsworth said: "Paul wants to play first team football and Gateshead can guarantee that. We wish him all the very best."