A YOUNG North-East footballer has won a place in a US training academy.

Chris Palmer, 19, from Darlington, will attend Central College in Iowa, to help achieve his ambition of becoming a professional player. The scholarship is for four years, and he will start in August.

Mr Palmer, of Milner Road, has represented County Durham and Darlington, and said he was looking forward to moving to the US. However, it will cost about £4,000 a year for him to attend, and he is seeking funding.

His mother, Debbie, said: "I'll miss him, but I'm so happy for him. Football is his life and his dream, and it's a great opportunity."

Anyone who can help Mr Palmer fund his academy fees can contact him on 07791 062962.