A POLITICIAN has backed a football club’s plea for fan support by buying the first lifetime membership of its new clubhouse.

Helen Goodman, Bishop Auckland’s Labour MP, has pledged her support to Spennymoor Town Football Club’s bid to generate £300,000.

The team, second in the Northern League, need a new clubhouse after the old one burnt down in 2003.

Durham County Council supports the club’s plans for the Brewery Field clubhouse.

The two storey structure will have a clubroom, function room and covered terrace. It is hoped that other sports and local residents will use it.

Fans can invest £300 into the scheme to gain a lifetime clubhouse membership which offers discounts at the facility.

Another option is to pay £1,000 to secure shares in the clubhouse with dividends paid to investors. After an initial two-year period the club’s operating profits will be split 50-50 between the investors and the club.

Mrs Goodman said: “What a great opportunity the new clubhouse promises to be, not only providing club facilities but also as a venue for community use.

“I’m sure supporters and businesses will show their commitment to a club that is putting Spennymoor on the map.”

Club director Mike Rowcroft said: “We’ve been planning this for years and a lot of hard work has gone in to get us to this point already.

“The clubhouse will be open seven days a week and everyone will have a chance to get involved and to enjoy the new facilities that will be on offer."

Details on the share scheme are available from Mike Rowcroft on 07770500593 and Billy Beasley on 07595-217408, or email spennymoortownfc@aol.com.