A YOUTH football side are hoping to be saved from going to the wall by finding funding for next season.

Wear Valley Under-17s have just finished a disappointing campaign in the New Durham County League where they finished bottom.

But the young guns are determined to bounce back in style, but they need to find sponsorship from somewhere in order to make the step up to Under-18 level.

The club, who have been playing for the past five years at Willington's Parkside Comprehensive School, received a £500 grant from the County Durham Foundation last season.

But now Wear Valley are in urgent need of a backer, or they face extinction.

And club manager John Dixon, who is also secretary, is determined to see his club stay afloat.

"If we can find a major sponsor that would be superb, it would really help us," said Dixon, whose side won the Fair Play award two seasons ago when they were playing in the Gateshead Youth League.

"Failing that, some funding would be of great help. We are all in this for the love of it and we have a set of players who are keen to do well in which ever league we play in next year."

If anyone is interested in sponsoring the youngsters contact John on (01388) 731075.