Talented Hitchin Town striker Callum Stead who was once hailed as the 'new Jamie Vardy' has joined South Shields.

The Canaries former frontman and fans' firm favourite has accepted an offer to join Northern League Premier Division side South Shields on a non-contract deal.

The 21-year-old joins after an impressive spell at Top Field, including this term, where he scored four goals in the first six games of the campaign.

Stead also grabbed the winner in what proved to be his final league game for Hitchin, his late strike sealing a dramatic 3-2 victory over Barwell at Top Field last week.

Speaking to Hitchin Nub News last season boss Mark Burke said: "It's only early days of course but Callum has done so well.

"He reminds me of Jamie Vardy in that he's got an eye for goal and he works his socks off. His work rate off the ball is so good as well.

"How far can he go? He needs a couple of years here with us but if he performs as well as he can he's got half a chance of progressing further.

"He's not the biggest but he's got a great spring. He's got a lot going for him."

Stead previously appeared for Luton Town's academy before a successful stint at Welwyn Garden City.

The talented 21-year-old spoke of his delight to his new club's website upon joining the renowned giants from the north east.

"This is a great opportunity for me and I'm excited to be here," said humble Stead following the move on Monday.

"The club is on the up and it felt right from the moment signing here was a possibility.

"Now I just can't wait to get to know the lads and pull on a South Shields shirt for the first time."