Teesside International Airport has teamed up with Darlington Football Club ahead of the new season kicking off this weekend. The airport’s logo will be proudly shown on the shirt sleeves of the National League North squad’s home and away kits.

The two-year-long agreement comes ahead of Darlington, taking on Farsley Celtic on Saturday. The announcement also comes a week after Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen and airport operator Stobart Group brought back the popular Teesside International name.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “Darlington FC has a rich and storied history and we are proud to be part of that story. We believe this partnership is a win-win for Teesside International Airport and Darlington FC as the football season kicks off. We are also delighted to back another local business – one of my top election pledges.”

Darlington FC’s Commercial Director Craig Morley said: “I am delighted to welcome Teesside International Airport to Darlington Football Club as a main sponsor. I would like to go on record and thank the airport’s fantastic staff, and Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen as without him ‘bringing our airport home’, none of this would have been possible.

“Darlington FC will proudly promote the airport on our shirt sleeves both home and away for a minimum of two seasons. Once again backing local businesses are investing in each other, rubber stamping the ethic of keeping business local.”