Pitchero Non League

Darlington FC 1883, the fans company which bought the club, has agreed a new groundshare deal with Bishop Auckland after concerns emerged about the safety of Shildon’s ground if a large number of Quakers fans attended.

Denis Pinnegar, chairman of DFC 1883, said he had spoken to the chairman of Shildon AFC today to advise that Darlington would not be playing at the club’s ground next season.

He added: “This is in no way meant to be disrespectful to Shildon - they are a lovely club and nice people, but we have significant concerns about safety bearing in mind we will be bringing several hundred fans to the ground.”

Pinnegar said Bishop Auckland had received recent provisional approval to become a Class C ground, which meant it could be suitable to hold games classed as Step 4, or potentially higher.

He added: “This decision was not taken because of our appeal to the FA regarding our placement in the Northern League, however it will potentially enhance our appeal.”

Tags: News | The Northern Football League

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