A TEAM of young footballers is sporting a brand new training kit after netting a new sponsorship deal.

New College Durham has donated funds to Birtley Town Juniors to enable them to buy new training jackets for their under-12’s team.

The talented youngsters are currently flying high at the top of Russell Foster Youth League Under 12’s Division 7 where they currently stand 14 points clear of their nearest rival.

Keith Flood, the youth team’s coach, said: “On behalf of myself and the team, I would like to say a massive to thank to New College for their sponsorship.

“The jackets are perfect for training in colder weather and the players look really smart and professional.”

The idea to sponsor the local football team came from Dean Boyle, a maintenance assistant at New College Durham, whose son plays for the side.

Shelley McCormack, the college’s head of marketing, said: “We run a range of sports courses at New College, so appreciate that participation in sport can greatly improve physical and mental health.

“Youth football is a great way for young people to be active and develop team working skills.

“We hope that the new training jackets will help the players feel part of a team and will encourage more young people to get involved.”