A TEESSIDE law firm has helped secure the future of a junior football team.

Endeavour Partnership, based in Thornaby, near Stockton, worked with Lionsraw to support its 25-year asset transfer lease from Middlesbrough Council for pitches for Cleveland Juniors FC.

The project includes a new clubhouse, which will be built by August.

The partnership to find the club a permanent home was brought together by Lionsraw, a movement which aims to get football fans to use their love of the sport to make a difference to the lives of others.

Jamie Brown, a partner at Endeavour Partnership, advised on the project, with backing coming from Sunderland star Adam Johnson, who played for Cleveland Juniors.

He said: “As an ex-player, I'm delighted Lionsraw and its partners will preserve the ongoing legacy of this great club and its future players.”

Formed in 1985, Cleveland Juniors has helped 39 youngsters turn into professional footballers.

Michelle Rush, from Cleveland Juniors, added: “Our late chairman, Frank Rush, dreamt the club would be at the heart of this community.

“This project will help the club to grow and ensure its long-term commitment to the children and young people of Middlesbrough.”