A TOWN football club that was evicted from its ground has secured a new lease from its landlord.

Officials at Spennymoor Town FC were celebrating last night after they convinced Spennymoor Town Council to offer the club a long-term lease.

During the summer, after two years of unsuccessful negotiations, the County Durham club was ordered to vacate The Brewery Field, which has been the home of football in the town for 103 years.

Councillors allowed the club, which plays in the Arngrove Northern League, access to play agreed fixtures while talks continued.

After considering a new business plan by the club, councillors agreed to offer the club a 25-year lease, which was signed last night.

Before pen was put to paper, the club had to pay a £5,000 bond.

Councillor Jim Smith said: "I wish the club all our success and support."

The news came after frantic efforts by supporters and officials to repair relations with the council and safeguard the club's future.

Supporters rallied to improve the ground, which had fallen into disrepair during the uncertainty, while officials worked on the business plan.

Because the ground is owned by the council, and therefore a public asset, the authority said it needed assurances the club could honour a lease so taxpayers would not be left to pick up the bill if it failed.

Town clerk Pauline Wilson had earlier paid tribute to club secretary and lifelong fan Jonathan Le-Poidevin, who she said had worked exceptionally hard and professionally so a deal could be reached.

Chairman Alan Murray said he was now looking to the future and that one of his first aims was to replace the previous social club, which was destroyed in a fire at Christmas 2003, and the continued development of junior and ladies teams.

Mr Le-Poidevin said: "This is a big relief. It safeguards the club's future and heritage.

"It is fantastic news for the supporters and people of the town.

"We now look forward the community and council's continued support.