FORMER Forest Green striker Reece Styche insists Gateshead's ambition and interest was strong enough to persuade him to relocate his pregnant wife and family.

The 27-year-old finished last season on loan at Macclesfield from Kidderminster, having not previously played in the north of England.

He has accepted a one-year-deal to join the National League side.

"The gaffer Neil Aspin knows my partner is due to drop my second child any time soon," Styche told BBC Newcastle.

"It shows a commitment from me that the club can go places."

Three of Styche's eight goals in 32 games last season came in one match against Gateshead for Macclesfield in March, alerting Aspin to his talents.

Aspin told the Newcastle Chronicle: "Reece is obviously here to perform on the pitch, but he will also be a great addition off it,” said manager Neil Aspin.

“He’ll be a vocal presence in the dressing room. We were too quiet on and off the pitch last year and he’s a lively character who has done well against Gateshead.

“His goal record in the Conference is one every three games, and if he can do that and contribute in other ways then I’ll be pleased.”