FANS behind a new supporters' trust at Hartlepool United hope to work with the club owners to form a partnership.

They unanimously voted to create the trust to give their backing to the club.

More than 200 people attended an event in the Corporation Welfare Club in Hartlepool to vote on the issue.

John McQue, who formed a Trust Working Party to explore the initial idea, said: "To have such an overwhelming yes vote was fantastic and confirmed that this is something the fans want.

"However, the hard work really starts now. After the meeting we had large number of people who came forward to be actively involved and we hope that this is something that will continue.

"We now have a mandate to take this to the next stage and we need people to be involved in that at all levels. The trust will be an inclusive and democratic community organisation that will encompass all types of skill sets."

He added: "The trust will look to be a partner of the owners. To have fans and owners working towards a common goal is surely what all clubs should aim for. This happens very successfully at many clubs already.

He said he believed it was in the interests of the football club to "embrace a partnership for the common good".

The trust will now be officially registered with Supporters Direct, and the Financial Conduct Authority as a 'Community Benefit Society' and a membership drive will begin as soon as the registration is verified.