Darlington signed Purdie ahead of the 2007/08 season. Purdie's move to the North East ended a five year spell with Hereford United where he played an important part in helping the club win promotion back to the Football League in 2006 by scoring in the Conference play-off semi-finals.

Purdie made 112 starts for Hereford and scored nine times during the course of the 2006/07 campaign. During his time at Edger Street the midfielder played virtually every position however has been predominately used as a central midfielder.

Purdie began his career at Leicester City where he played for the U19 and reserve teams. In his final season he played several matches for Hereford United's reserves before signing for them in July 2002. Purdie was named captain for the club's first season back in the league and at the end of the season he was voted the Supporters Player of the Year, and also picked up the award for Away Player of the Year.