A GROUP of young footballers is celebrating after receiving new kits from a local sponsor.

Heighington AFC's under-eights team, who play in the Teesside Junior Football Alliance, have been given new home and away kits by Darlington-based Parnaby Removals and Storage.

Director Anthony Parnaby, whose seven-year-old son plays for the team, said: "I was pleased to be able to help when the team was looking for a sponsor.

"It's the boys' first season playing in a league and hopefully having the right kit will help them feel confident as a team."

Under-eights coach and manager Dan Lewis said: "I am so proud of the players, they have worked so hard this season and they are always learning and improving.

"It's great that they have a smart new kit to help boost their confidence even further."

The team is looking for new players ahead of joining the under-nines league in September. Training takes place on Thursday, from 5pm to 6pm, at the Alun Armstrong Sports Centre, in Shildon, in winter months, and at Heighington playing field in the spring and summer. Matches take place throughout Teesside on Sunday mornings.

For more information, email delewis@sky.com