Groves went on to have a successful career with the Hornets as he was part of the FA Vase winning team in May 2021, which saw off Consett AFC, to lift the trophy for the first time in the club’s 109-year history.

In the 2021/22 season, Dan groves was handed the captain’s armband for the season to which the right-back said: “It’s an absolute pleasure.”

Groves also went on to scoop an award in the 2022/23 season, where he shared the Manager’s player award with Shaun Newbrook.

In May 2023, Groves played a part in our Durham Challenge Cup triumph over Spennymoor Town where the game ended 1-1 after 90 minutes, but the Hornets won 5-4 on penalties after James Harrison scored the winning spot-kick, ending a 31-year wait.

The 2023/24 season saw Groves play a vital part in our title winning season, as he was part of the team on the final day that saw us beat Sheffield FC at the ‘Home of Football’ 2-0, which saw us clinch the Northern Premier East Division title by pipping Stockton Town by one point to earn promotion to step three, for the first time in the club’s history.

However, Groves was sent out to the Stan in November 2024, on a season-long loan.

We would like to thank Groves for everything he has helped the club achieve, and we would like to wish him all the best for his future career.