A CAR dealership has hit the back of the net with its latest signing.

Former footballer Jimmy Warnett has joined Mitsubishi Tees Valley as a sales executive.

The 25-year-old, who played alongside the likes of Ben Gibson, Dael Fry and current Rangers star Jordon Jones in youth and reserve team games for Middlesbrough, had his professional career cut short aged just 21 through injury.

But now the former right winger is the star signing for the Mitsubishi franchise, based on McMullen Road in Darlington.

“I’m really excited to be working for Mitsubishi Tees Valley and looking forward to getting some results for them,” said Warnett, from Willington.

“Mitsubishi is a recognised brand with a loyal customer base, and I know the guys at the dealership have already done a great job in growing that base over the years.

“Hopefully I can add to that and start bringing new custom in for them as well as maintaining existing customers.”

Manager Jimmy Milner, who gave Warnett his first job in car sales with another dealership five years ago, said: “I’ve worked with Jimmy before – he’s a hard worker, has great people skills and the customers love him.

“At Mitsubishi Tees Valley, we have our regular customers and it’s a nice atmosphere, so Jimmy will slot into the business perfectly.”

Mitsubishi Tees Valley is a franchise dealer of the Japanese car manufacturer but also sells other used cars as well as offering servicing.

Mr Milner added: “We have a wide range of vehicles available, whether you are looking for a 4x4, a pick-up, a small city car, a family car or an electric vehicle, we have something to offer everyone.

“We also supply fleets of cars to a number of businesses across the Tees Valley region.”