Blue Square Premier side Gateshead have announced plans to become a full-time operation, even if they are relegated.

The Tynesiders are near the bottom four in non-league's top tier in their first season back after promotion last term.

Plans are also in place for a purpose-built 9,000-seat stadium for the club who play in the council-owned International Stadium.

Ian Bogie's side will also enter a reserve team in the Central League for the first time next season.

Meanwhile, defender Darren Williams has revealed that survival remains the club's major aim.

606: DEBATE Can Gateshead sustain a full-time operation?

The Tynesiders only gained promotion last season and Williams admitted everyone related to the club has realistic expectations.

He told BBC Newcastle Total Sport: "Our ambition is to stay in the league.

"To fall out of the division would be massive because it was hard for Gateshead to get up into the league."

Gateshead are currently 19th in the Blue Square Premier, a point clear of the relegation zone.

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