A FOOTBALL mascot has been suspended from his job after being arrested by police on suspicion of possessing illegal drugs.

Lee Kelly, who has dressed up as Darlington Football Club mascot Mr Q at home matches, was suspended from his voluntary position before Saturday's game against Kidderminster Harriers.

Mr Kelly, who is 33 years old, lives in Beech Road, Darlington.

A spokesman for the club said: "Darlington Football Club doesn't condone the illegal use of drugs.

"This man is one of many people who have worn the outfit of the club's official mascot at home matches.

"He has been suspended from these duties, which he carries out in a voluntary capacity, pending the outcome of police investigations."

A police spokesman said: "A 33-year-old man called Lee Kelly was arrested on suspicion of possessing drugs in late February.

"He was bailed pending further inquiries."

The police confirmed he had not been charged and that the investigation was still under way.

Mr Q - which stands for Quaker - was introduced to fans at the club in 1998.

It is his job to walk up and down the pitch before a match, meeting youngsters, and to stand behind the goal during the game.

Saturday's game against Kidderminster Harriers marked the official opening of the club's north stand.

The club managed to beat a world record for the largest number of mascots on a football pitch, but Mr Q was played by a different volunteer.