THE North-East arm of one of Britain’s biggest trade unions is supporting grassroots sport in the region by sponsoring three local football teams for the 2019-20 season.

The Durham (General) Branch of the GMB union has signed a headline sponsorship deal with Northern League side Crook Town.

The former Amateur Cup winners will wear a home strip featuring the GMB trade union logo, and GMB information will also be included in the club programme.

The GMB's Durham branch, which represents around 2,500 private-sector workers, is also sponsoring Easington Colliery’s Under-13 girls team and Coxhoe’s Under-11s boys team.

Branch secretary Sue Sowerby-Scott, said: “We are very proud to be given the opportunity to be one of sponsors of Crook Town with its great record in local football.

“We also want to help junior football because it keeps young people physically active as well as encouraging teamwork.”