Barrow snap up midfielder Andy Ferrell

Ferrell played for Barrow in March and April

Barrow have signed midfielder Andy Ferrell on a one-year deal following his release by Gateshead.

The Newcastle-born 27-year-old enjoyed a successful loan spell with the Bluebirds last season.

He made eight appearances for Barrow in the Blue Square Bet Premier last season, scoring twice.

Ferrell started his career on Newcastle's books and went on to play for Watford, Hereford United, Kidderminster Harrriers and York City.

Earlier in the day, Ferrell told BBC Radio Cumbria: "I've had other interest. I had two firm offers, last week I declined one (because) I just wanted to stay full-time in the Blue Square Premier.

"I've never hid the fact that I want to come back to Barrow... I thoroughly enjoyed my relationship with [co-managers Dave and Darren] Bayliss and Sheridan when I was there and I'd like to work with them longer."

Ferrell began his career as a trainee with Newcastle United where he was unable to break into the first-team squad.

A brief spell with Watford followed before joining Hereford United in 2005.

After two seasons at Edgar Street, he enjoyed spells at Kidderminster Harriers and York City before joining Gateshead in February 2010.

He made his Barrow debut in a 0-0 draw against York on 5 March, scoring his first goal for the Bluebirds in a 4-2 away win at Southport later that month.