AN MOTOR dealer has kicked off its sponsorship of an east Durham football team by providing them with a brand new kit.

Bristol Street Motors Hyundai of Mill Hill, North West Industrial Estate, Peterlee has given the U17 Easington Colliery AFC team funding, enabling the club to purchase a new strip for the new season.

David Williams, whose son has played for team since its formation, manages the team. He said: "We have a fantastic group of lads, many of whom have been with us since the age of six.

“I’ve been coaching the team for around seven years, but my son has been a member since the team was formed.

"We’ve struggled to find sponsorship in past seasons and kit for a full squad of players is very expensive, so the whole team and management are extremely grateful to Bristol Street Motors for the support they’ve provided.”

The club was formally known as Easington District Eagles until a merger with Easington Colliery at the beginning of last season saw them take on a raft of talented new players and a new moniker.

Since the merger, the club has been at the heart of the community with players from all parts of the town representing their hometown with pride in the Russell Foster U17 Premier League, the top flight for local youth teams in the North-East.

Billy Taylor, general manager at Bristol Street Motors Hyundai Peterlee, said: "We are delighted to be sponsoring the Easington Colliery U17s and to be able to provide them with new kit for the new season.

"At Bristol Street Motors Hyundai Peterlee, we understand that local businesses have a responsibility to support local organisations.

“Sport plays a very important role in bringing the local community together.”