THE Football Association will tonight announce it is donating a five-figure sum to honour a North- East sporting pioneer.

The donation, thought to be about £20,000, means work can now begin on a 12ft bronze statue of former Darlington goalkeeper Arthur Wharton, the world’s first black professional footballer.

The news will be announced at the Black List awards, taking place in London tonight, which are held to celebrate the most influential black people in football. Today would have been Wharton’s 125th birthday.

Speaking yesterday, the FA’s general secretary Alex Horne, said: “We’re privileged to be in a position to be able to recognise the contribution Arthur Wharton made to the game, and we must also pay tribute to those who have worked so tirelessly to recognise Arthur’s legacy.”

FA advisor Brendon Batson, who was one third of West Bromwich Albion’s “Three Degrees” in the Eighties, along with Laurie Cunningham and Cyrille Regis, said: “This is a well deserved recognition of the impact Arthur Wharton made, not only to professional football but also to the community where he lived.”

Wharton played for Darlington from 1884. During his time in the region he also set the world record for the 100-yard sprint.

The Arthur Wharton Foundation, which this week was granted charitable status, was started by Darlington businessman Shaun Campbell to commemorate Wharton’s achievements.

Mr Campbell said: “Arthur Wharton was a true pioneer and trailblazer, paving the way for all who followed in his footsteps.

“He has been overlooked for far too long and should now be honoured and celebrated in the most appropriate manner, befitting his achievements.

“This donation from the FA has ensured that Arthur’s legacy will live on.”

The statue has been designed by sculptor Vivien Mallock, who created the statue of Brian Clough in Albert Park, Middlesbrough.

It is expected to arrive in Darlington next year and the search is now on for a home for the statue in the town.

Councillor John Williams, leader of Darlington Borough Council, said he was delighted at the news. He said: “I would like to congratulate the campaigners on their hard work to get recognition for this sporting hero.

“The council will work with the Arthur Wharton Foundation to find a fitting place for the statue to be erected.”

The campaign has had the support of celebrities such as Stevie Wonder, George Boateng and Rio Ferdinand, and has the financial backing of Cameron’s Brewery and Uefa.