A FOOTBALL team has been saved from possible extinction following the intervention of an MP and local businesses.

Thornaby St Patrick's FC was finding it difficult to keep its head above water when the club contacted Dari Taylor, MP for Stockton South, for help.

Mrs Taylor asked local businesses if they could provide financial support for the football club, and three firms - Scott Brothers, K Home International and Maintel Communications - agreed to get involved.

Maintel has sponsored the team's' shirts and, along with the other two businesses, has given money to help with the running of the club.

This year, Thornaby St Patricks became the first team from the town to win the Ellis Cup since the competition was created in 1889.

Mrs Taylor said: "My job was a small one. I simply asked businesses whether they would support the football team.

"I was delighted that Tom Howson, at Maintel, agreed to sponsor the shirts and that K Home International and Scott Brothers instantly said they would provide further financial support to this excellent local football club."

Manager Jimmy Delmer said: "The team is such an important activity for the town.

"The support from Dari and the money from the businesses is vital to keeping the club going.

"Some of the lads have hard lives, and the team is crucial to them.

"If any other businesses want to become involved please do get in touch, as a successful team is so important to the youth and all of us in Thornaby."