YOUNG footballers will recreate the glory days of amateur football in South Durham during a two-day festival this summer.

The Youth Festival of Football features four junior teams from across the district re-enacting FA Amateur Cup finals from the 1950s and 60s.

The event, organised by the Durham Amateur Football Trust, takes place at Crook FC’s home ground, Millfield, on July 18 and 19.

Bishop Auckland St Mary’s will represent the old Bishop Auckland team, and Willington FC will be represented by Willington Under 14s.

West Auckland FC and Crook Town FC will be represented by Newton Aycliffe Under 14s, and Wolsingham Academy respectively.

Spennymoor Youth Brass Band will also be performing during the event.

New strips have been created for the event, replicating the design and colours of the 1950s and 60s.

Organisers hope the first five minutes of each match will be played with a traditional leather football, and are hoping sidelines staff will use water bottles and sponges from that period.

Many former amateur footballers from the 1950s to the 80s have been invited to attend, and will be introduced to spectators between matches.

The event was the brainchild of Trust member Tom Kelly, who spent several years running junior football teams.

"Initially I thought it would be a good way to thank the old players, but then the plans snowballed.

"It has been very well received by everyone we have approached to take part, and everyone in the Trust has worked hard to get it moving.

"We hope it will become an annual event."

Fellow Trust member John Phelan added: "The glory days of amateur football may be gone, but they will never be forgotten.

"We hope to attract a big crowd to support the young players, and hope many supporters who turned out during the 1950s and 60s will also attend.

"The Trust aims to make sure that younger generations never forget the North East’s amateur football history."

The event has been funded with a £3,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The festival kicks off at 11am on July 18. Admission is free, but donations will be taken throughout the event.