HUNDREDS of Darlington fans will make the trek across the Pennines for what could be the Quakers final match in its 128-year history.

Supporters have rallied behind their heroes on the eve of what many believe will be full-time for the club when the final whistle blows at Barrow this afternoon.

Two coaches have been laid on which will leave town centre at 10.45am, many more will make their own way from Darlington and exiled fans are set to make their way to Barrow from across the country.

Article continues below

Directions to Barrow-in-Furness

IT is hoped that hundreds of fans will make the journey across the Pennines to cheer on Darlington against Barrow for what could be the Quakers’ last match. For those travelling by road, the quickest way is along the M6 via the A66 and the A685 at Brough. Come off the motorway at junction 36 of the M6 and take the A590 which will take you all the way into Barrow. Pass the fire station on the right, take the next left into Wilkie Road and the ground is on the right hand side. The post code for Sat-Navs is LA14 5UW. Trains are also available from Darlington station leaving at 9.13am (changing at Leeds and Carnforth) and at 10.05am (changing at York, Manchester Piccadilly and Lancaster). Tickets cost £65.80 for adults. On leaving the station, exit onto Holker Street, turn right and the ground is approximately half a mile on the left. Tickets are available on the turnstiles and cost £14 for adults, £11 concessions, and £6 for under 16s. Visiting fans are welcome in the Crossbar bar at the ground.

The Quakers already enjoyed a bumper attendance of 2,581 on New Year’s Day against Gateshead for what could prove to be the club’s final game at The Northern Echo Arena.

Fans are urging their fellow supporters to go in an array of shirts from over the years to celebrate Darlington’s history and are even contemplating forming a guard of honour for the team’s arrival at Holker Street.

Scott Thornberry, who runs the Darlo Uncovered fan website, said: “The way the fans are talking is that we will go to Barrow as a celebration of the football club rather than treat it as a wake.

“Things don’t look too good. If the football club cannot be saved we will start again. But while Darlington Football Club still exists, we need to fight for the club we’ve got. If it comes to an end, and it’s liquidated then we will have to start again.”

This week, supporters on the website have rallied behind the players most of whom were not paid last month, by raising £7,650 online. The fund was initially set up to try donate £150 for a pre-match meal, but reached four figures within hours.

Those who have donated include former goalkeeper David Stockdale and club doctor Steve Charlton, who each gave £200.

Mr Thornberry added: “I think it’s taken everyone by surprise. I didn’t expect the total that we’ve got. I’m sure the players will really appreciate it. It shows that people do care about the club and want to fight for the club and its future.”