He began his career as a trainee with Newcastle United, and also played non-league football for clubs including Barrow and Whitley Bay.
[4] He began his football career with Newcastle United, but never broke through to the first team, and moved on to Darlington of the Fourth Division in September 1984.
[5] He also played in the 1984–85 FA Cup run during which Darlington eliminated near neighbours Middlesbrough in what was voted the greatest match seen at their Feethams ground.
[6][7] Aldred began the 1985–86 season in the team, but lost his place when Chris Evans arrived in October.
[5][8] Aldred left Darlington at the end of the season, and began 1986–87 with Northern Premier League club Barrow.