THE final wish of a superfan who left a fortune to his favourite non-league football club has come true.

More than £340,000 was handed over to Bishop Auckland Football Club today (May 2) on behalf of the late Colin Rowell who supported the club for 70 years.

Mr Rowell died in January last year aged 79 and in his will stated that most of his estate, including the proceeds from the sale of his bungalow, should go towards improving his beloved team's Heritage Park ground.

The cheque was presented to the club at half-time during the home match against Shildon by executor Darren Brown, of Hewitts Solicitors.

He said: “The game with Shildon is one of the biggest matches in Bishop Auckland’s season. It was the one match Colin would never miss.

“He’d have been delighted to know the cheque would be handed over at such an important fixture.”

In accordance with Mr Rowell's wishes, club officials are already planning a series of improvements to the pitch in time for next season.

These include the installation of a new secondary drainage system after bad weather forced the team to postpone several fixtures this season.

Club director Terry Jackson said: “Colin’s wish was the money would be used to help improve the ground and that’s exactly what we are planning to do.

“New drainage, together with on-pitch improvements, will give us a perfect playing surface next season.”

Born in nearby Cockton Hill, Mr Rowell was taken to his first match by his father, a train driver, as soon as he could walk.

At the time, the team were enjoying an unprecedented run of success in national and local competitions - leading to his lifelong passion for the club.

Mr Rowell's ashes were scattered at Heritage Park in a ceremony held last year and the club is now planning to name part of the ground after its biggest fan.

Mr Brown added: “It’s not unusual for football fans to leave something to their favourite team, but the size of Colin’s bequest is staggering.

"The final sum, which represents nearly two years’ turnover, will make a massive difference to a club like Bishop Auckland.”

Receiving the cheque, club chairman Richard Tremewan said: "It's a once in a lifetime opportunity to improve an already fantastic set up.

"It would be the equivalent of Manchester United getting a billion pounds."

He added the generous sum would help secure the future of the successful amateur side - best known for winning the FA Amateur Cup an impressive ten times - for years to come.