Harrogate Town have boosted their ranks with the capture of former Leeds United and England Under-21s midfielder Mark Ford.

The 27-year-old, who has also had spells at Burnley, Torquay and Darlington, was part of the Town suqad that beat Ossett Albion 4-1 last night - with the one-time FA Youth Cup winner netting the fourth goal.

Ford was released by the Quakers at the end of the season and had seemingly been set to join Leigh RMI, having been on-loan with the Railwaymen before his exit from Feethams.

Town had fallen 1-0 behind against Ossett, but Robbie Whellans and an Iain Dunn penalty had put John Reed's all-stars back in control.

Former Premiership star Mark Atkins finally killed off the resistance with 12 minutes left, before Ford marked his debut with a goal.

Pickering Town overcame loftier opponents when they toppled Alex Mathie's Spennymoor.

Ryan Crawford (2) and Adam Wash netted the goals.

Updated: 09:53 Wednesday, July 30, 2003