Crook Town are setting up a junior section in a big step forward for the club.

It’s a first for the club as they start to build for the future, both on and off the field as a nightmare season in the Northern League comes to an end. They could be relegated from the first division this weekend if results go against them.

But first team manager Peter Mulcaster is determined to shrug off that formality as the club open its doors to the town’s junior football community.

“A junior section has always been frowned upon by the club before, but now we’re happy to go down this avenue,” he said.

“Kids from Crook go all over the county and pay fortunes for facilities, so now we want to offer the use of our Millfield facilities.

“We’ve already had talks with representatives of Under 7s, Under 8s and Under 14s teams with the possibility of more to come. We’ve spoken to the parents, coaches and managers of these teams, and they’re all happy with the arrangements. All three teams will use our pitch.

“The junior section will be a part of the club, and they’ll have representatives on the management committee.”

The juniors have already used the facilities on a couple of occasions, and Mulcaster said; “It was great to see kids with smiling faces, and enjoying what they’re doing.

“We feel that this is making a great step in the right direction. Look at Guisborough Town, they offer a great opportunity for progression for youngsters. We would love to replicate their model, with the club at the heart of the community.”