A Bishop Auckland construction company is backing a school football team's efforts to play their way to the top of their league.

M and M Plasline (MMP) is sponsoring the under-11 side at Oakley Cross Junior School, in West Auckland, who now have strips featuring a burgundy top and blue shorts.

The team plays in the Wear Valley School Minor League B and is currently mid-table.

Thomas Lowes, a joiner at MMP and whose son, also called Thomas, plays in the team, said: "It's great that MMP have been able to help the team and provide them with kit, as it helps the kids feel proud when they play competitive football."

MMP chairman Michael O'Connell said: "Local businesses have a responsibility to help community development and hopefully the new kits that we've provided for the team will enable Oakley Cross to develop well in the league, maybe even to win it."

A spokeswoman for the school said: "We want to thank the company for providing the strip and also thank the parents for their continuing support with extra-curricular activities."