Darlington chairman George Reynolds last night stood firm over next season's home shirt - and insisted the radical new design had received the backing of the club's fans.

The Quakers' chief revealed that several drafts had been drawn up by kit manufacturers Xara and that the red and white striped version with black piping was the overwhelming choice of supporters.

Reynolds said that 87 per cent of Darlington fans favoured the design which was unveiled for the first time in The Northern Echo yesterday.

"We had five or six shirts made out and 87per cent picked that shirt," said Reynolds.

"The club's colours have always been red, white and black and that's exactly what this one is.

"We have had a vote among fans who visited the new stadium and this is the shirt they want."

Reynolds believes the new look is the beginning of a new era for the club as they prepare to move to their new 27,500 all-seater stadium.

"We have a wonderful new stadium waiting for us for next season and the fans I've spoken to are very happy with the way things are going," said Reynolds.

"Everybody seems really happy with the shirt."

Reynolds said the new strip showed that the club was "moving with the times".

He said last night he was unable to give supporters a glimpse of the rejected designs.

Quakers, meanwhile, have a virtually fully fit squad available for this weekend's final game at Feethams against Leyton Orient.

Caretaker boss Mick Tait reported no fresh injury worries after the weekend defeat at Bristol Rovers.

Mark Sheeran remains sidelined with an ankle injury while winger Richard Hodgson will sit out again with a groin problem.

*The club is advising fans without tickets for Saturday's game to purchase them in advance to avoid disappointment.

Gates open at 12 and a special 72 page A4 commemorative programme will be on sale, priced £5.

There will be a parade of around 80 former players at 1.45pm including many of the 1966 promotion winning team, including Alan Sproates and Ron Greener.

Read more about the Quakers here.