Goalkeeper Shane Bland rejects new deal to end long stay at Whitby Town

Whitby Town goalkeeper Shane Bland has turned down the club’s offer of a new contract and will leave the Towbar Express Stadium ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The experienced stopper, who has been a mainstay for the Seasiders across multiple spells, was presented with what the club described as a strong financial package in a bid to retain his services.

Shane Bland makes a crucial save in the final game of his Whitby Town career, the goalless home draw against Cleethorpes which helped Town stay in the NPL Premier Division. Photo by Brian Murfield

placeholder image — Shane Bland makes a crucial save in the final game of his Whitby Town career, the goalless home draw against Cleethorpes which helped Town stay in the NPL Premier Division. Photo by Brian Murfield

However, Bland has opted to move on, bringing an end to a lengthy and influential association with the North Yorkshire outfit.

Bland first joined Whitby in 2013 and went on to make 504 appearances, establishing himself as one of the most consistent performers in the Northern Premier League. Known for his reliability and leadership, he has been a key figure both on and off the pitch during his time at the club.

Shane Bland thanks the Blues fans after what turned out to be his final game in a Whitby shirt, the 0-0 draw at home to Cleethorpes Town on the final day of the 2025-26 season,. Photo by Brian Murfield

Despite the club’s efforts to secure his future, the decision signals a changing of the guard as Whitby begin shaping their squad for the upcoming campaign.

Whitby Town have thanked Bland for his service, acknowledging his professionalism and contribution over more than a decade. He departs with the best wishes of the club and its supporters as he looks to continue his career elsewhere.