A MILLIONAIRE has stunned one of the world's oldest football leagues by revising his will to guarantee it will be financially secure long after he is dead.
Officials of The Northern League thought they were dreaming when self-made entrepreneur Brooks Mileson got to his feet at their annual dinner and announced the unique sponsorship deal.
Former four-minute miler Mr Mileson, owner of the Albany Group, had kept his plan secret.
It means the league - formed in 1889 and the second oldest in the world - will not only be sponsored for the rest of his life but throughout his sons' lives by way of a trust.
The deal, unveiled at the league's annual dinner at Ramside Hall, near Durham, could be worth several million pounds because it will provide at least £35,000 annually for many years to come.
Albany, formerly Arnott Insurance, has sponsored the league since Sunderland-born Mr Mileson watched Whitby win the FA Vase in 1997.
"I love The Northern League, and what it stands for," said Mr Mileson, who was given a standing ovation by 200 dinner guests.
"I've always supported local football. Ever since I went to the FA Vase final with Whitby when they were a Northern League club six years ago, I have felt real football emotion. That day with Whitby was so emotional, and ever since then I've loved The Northern League.
"Doing this with The Northern League sponsorship is my way of putting something back into the game.
"Not only is The Northern League provided for in my lifetime, but also during the lifetime of my sons as well."
League chairman Mike Amos, who had no inkling of Mr Mileson's announcement, said: "What a magnificent gesture - it must be unique not just in non-league football, but in football in general.
"It means that the league is completely secure in terms of sponsorship for many years to come.
"It is quite the most wonderful thing that's ever happened.
"I've still got the original agreement, which was written on the back of a fag packet."
* Read updates on The Northern League every day in The Northern Echo.
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