NORTHERN Rock has launched a Newcastle United-based website as part of its sponsorship of the football club.

Sign the Stripes will show the strip gradually formed by fans entering their names and messages of support to create the black stripes.

Northern Rock is the main sponsor of the Premier League-bound club, which this week clinched the Coca Cola Championship title.

All fans have to do is enter their name and message of support – via the website or SMS – and it will be added it to the virtual football shirt.

Northern Rock marketing director Anth Mooney said: “Our aim is to bring Northern Rock, the club and its supporters closer together via our sponsorship and reinforce Northern Rock as a brand that’s fiercely proud of its North-East roots and its continued association with Newcastle United.”

Newcastle United manager Chris Hughton said: “Myself and the lads were delighted to help launch the Sign the Stripes website.

“It’s a terrific initiative and one that I am sure will prove hugely popular with our supporters.”

The website is signthestripes.co.uk