AN amateur football club is playing in colours inspired by one of the world's most famous teams, thanks to the two sides' historic links.

Crook Town FC, in the Arngrove Northern League second division, wore their new strip, based on the design of Barcelona, in Spain, for the first time at the weekend.

The County Durham club recently rekindled ties with the Catalan club, after officials visited the Nou Camp earlier this year.

In 1913, Crook played against Barcelona to help establish football in an area where the main sport was bullfighting, and toured the area again in 1921 and 1922.

Barca's first official coach was Jack Greenwell, a Crook man who remains the club's second longest-serving manager.

Crook Town chairman Steve Buddle was one of the club representatives who met Barcelona counterparts in February.

He said: "The new shirts are to celebrate the link-up with Barcelona.

"We thought it would be a nice idea as we are very proud of the history between the two teams.

"We told Barca that we would like to play in their colours and they said that was no problem, so we based it on the classic Barcelona kit.

"It keeps the link going and we intend to keep in touch with Barcelona over the next few months. You never know what might happen."

On Saturday, Crook travelled to Northumbria University, home of league rivals Team Northumbria, handing a debut to midfielder Andrew Rogregous.

His name would not look out of place on the team sheet at the Nou Camp, but although some of his relatives are Spanish, he is from Barnard Castle.

The game finished 3-3, with Crook first taking the lead and then recovering from 3-1 down.

Secretary Kieron Bennett said: "The kit seemed to give them a bit of a lift, although the lads were a bit dubious about the white socks at first."

The strip, sponsored by Miller Homes, will be used as the team's away kit, with their traditional black and amber colours remaining for home games.

The club is looking for a new manager after parting company with Richie Hill last week. To apply, call Mr Bennett on 07838-387335.