AMBITIOUS bosses at Darlington Football Club are hoping to arrange a lucrative sponsorship deal with fast-food chain McDonald's, The Northern Echo can reveal.

And football legend Kenny Dalglish could have a key role in the efforts to secure what would be a massive coup for the rejuvenated Quakers.

Club officials have made an initial approach to the former Newcastle United manager in his capacity as an ambassador for McDonald's community football schemes.

The club is hoping for talks with the company about sponsoring the North Stand of the £20m Williamson Motors Stadium.

The stand was out of action for the inaugural season at the Neasham Road venue, but work to bring it in line with safety standards is nearing completion.

Officials are keen for it to open as a family enclosure in style - and a tie-up with McDonald's is considered an ideal way.

Mr Dalglish holds the position of McDonald's head of Scottish football, but his friendship with Darlington boss David Hodgson has long seen him linked with some kind of role back in the North-East.

Last night, Quakers chief executive Andy Battison stressed that the idea was at an early stage.

"I'm looking to create a family enclosure that is fully sponsored and McDonald's are one option," said Mr Battison.

"I have mentioned it to Kenny and he fired a few questions back for me to have a think about.

"I'm going to try to get hold of him again this week to see if we can sit round the table.

"If it were to happen, obviously we would have to give McDonald's concessions in the North Stand - opening food outlets, etc."

Peugeot dealership Williamson Motors recently agreed a sponsorship deal that saw the Quakers stadium re-named and a package for the North Stand would be a further boost.

Meanwhile, the club is hoping special offers will help attract fans on Saturday when Darlington host Bury in League Two.

Fans over 18 will receive a free pint or pie, while under-18s will receive a soft drink or pie. Season ticket holders are eligible.

Cut-price tickets can also be bought from the club for the home game against Wycombe Wanderers on Saturday, October 30. Prices are £10 adults, concessions £5.