A FOOTBALL club's plans to redevelop its ground for the community's benefit are still on course, their chairman has insisted.

Crook Town FC announced proposals last September to buy the 90-year-old stadium lease on its Millfield home from landlords Wear Valley District Council.

With the help of funding from club president Sir Tom Cowie, a function room and other facilities were also drawn up with the aim of the ground becoming a community centre.

But nine months later, work has yet to start, leading to speculation that the scheme has come into difficulties.

However, chairman Steve Buddle said that funding was still in place and there were only some very small matters to iron out before the sale of land could go ahead.

He said: "We have been in touch with the Sir Tom Cowie foundation and Iain Phillips (chief executive of Wear Valley District Council).

"Both parties are very keen to resolve very minor issues around the sale of the ground. We are very, very hopeful that there will be something concrete shortly."

He added that the club was delighted with the support of the people in the town since the plans were announced.