By Martin Walker
Newton Aycliffe will give free admission to Darlington fans at their home game with Dunston on Saturday.
The stunt will hopefully help to raise much-needed funds for the proposed new community club, as the Darlington Supporters Trust will hold a bucket collection at the match.
Aycliffe entertain Dunston in the Northern League at Moore Lane Park on Saturday (3pm).
The Newtonians are offering Quakers season ticket holders the incentive as there’s no game for the Conference club this weekend, with their scheduled tie at Newport County re-arranged due to their involvement in the FA Trophy.
Darlo fans will be given free admission on production of their season ticket books – but will be invited to make donations to the Supporters Club.
Aycliffe chairman Gary Farley (pictured) said: “We just thought it would be a nice gesture to Darlo fans, who are having a tough time of it lately.
“Their support has been fantastic, the money they’ve raised has been hugely commendable and shows how much they care about their club.
“We’ve enjoyed two pre-season friendlies with Darlington in the last few years which has enabled us to raise vital funds, so this is a gesture of goodwill.
“We’ve invited the Darlington Supporters Club along to do a bucket collection, so fans are invited to make a donation in lieu of paying on the gate.
“I’m sure Aycliffe and Dunston supporters will also put their hands in their pockets, so hopefully it will raise a bit of money to go into the pot for the new community club.
“If we can play our own small part, then we’d be delighted to help.”
Darlington Supporters Club chairman Andy Smith said: “This is a fantastic gesture by our friends and neighbours at Newton Aycliffe.
“With us not having a game on Saturday, I’d urge all our fans to get along and show some support to both Aycliffe and Darlington.
“Cash collected on the day will go to Darlington 1883, the community club bidding to take over, so all money taken at Aycliffe will buy shares in the new club – it’s all very much appreciated.”
Aycliffe are currently sixth in the Northern League first division, level on points with fifth-placed Dunston.
Their game on Saturday kicks off at 3pm – admission is £5 adults and £3 concessions.