A LIFELONG Quakers fan has bid more than £500 to play at Feethams with his favourite players.

John Vickerman, 41, will step out on to Darlington FC's hallowed turf on Sunday for a charity match with former team members.

He paid £520 for the privilege at an auction to raise money for a film based on disabled Darlington fan Paul Hodgson's autobiography.

Mr Vickerman, a media company director, said: "Some of the money is for the film and some will go to help people with cerebral palsy.

"It is a lot of money but it is worth it. I want to play at Feethams before it closes to make way for the new stadium.

"I have been a fan for 40 years and even though I live in London now, I am still a regular supporter."

He will play in a team featuring Quaker legends Alan Walsh and David Speedie.

A celebrity team made up of famous faces from Coronation Street, Hollyoaks, Brookside and Footballers' Wives will provide the opposition.

The film, Down Among the Dead Men, has been in development for 18 months and is set at the club and in the town.