Football superfan launches new book on Darlington FC

Darlington native and multi-award-winning writer Paul Hodgson will launch his inspirational autobiography, titled 'For the Love of Darlo, on Monday, August 5 at the Darlington FC Club shop in the Dolphin Centre.

The event, starting at 10.30am will feature appearances from a host of former Darlington players.

For the Love of Darlo is a testament to Mr Hodgson’s strong spirit and lifelong dedication to Darlington FC.

Paul Hodgson, who was struck down by meningitis aged seven months, is a lifelong Darlington (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Struck down by meningitis at seven months old, Mr Hodgson was left severely disabled. His early years were a struggle as he attended a boarding school for children with disabilities, where he faced both supportive and challenging experiences.

The book recounts how, despite these adversities, Mr Hodgson’s life took a pivotal turn when his mother took him to his first Darlington FC match.

From that moment, he became a devoted fan, a passion that has now spanned 50 years.

In this deeply personal narrative, readers will find the transformative experience of Mr Hodgson’s first Darlington match, which cemented his lifelong fandom. He also recounts a thrilling account of how he and his friend tried to run away from their boarding school.

Mr Hodgson shares his memorable experience of playing goalkeeper in his wheelchair for his school team - which ended in a 26-0 defeat to a local comprehensive school team.

Darlington fan Paul Hodsgon has written several books and has had a film made about his life (Image: STUART BOULTON)

The autobiography explores his complex relationship with his father and the unwavering support he received from his mother.

It also includes fond memories of his time volunteering for the Darlington Supporter’s Club after leaving school.

Mr Hodgson’s writing career began in the 1990s, with his first book, Flipper’s Side published in 2000. This was later turned into a feature film in 2015 - 'Give Them Wings' - for which he wrote the script. He then wrote a book about his experiences making the film in 2021.

Other works include 'When Push Comes to Shove' in 2003 and his most recent work is 'One Hundred of the Best', a celebration of his 100 favourite Darlington games, released in 2022.

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This autobiography is not only a tribute to Darlington FC but also a powerful story of overcoming extreme adversity.

Mr Hodgson’s journey from a non-verbal child who had to be propped up to a successful writer and passionate football supporter is nothing short of remarkable.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet former players and hear firsthand from Mr Hodgson about his extraordinary life and enduring love for Darlington FC.