WITH a first European cup tie almost upon them, Middlesbrough football fans have struck up a strong friendship with a devoted follower of Banik Ostrava.

A website set up by Miro -real name Vladimir Janek -offered Boro supporters detailed information on the best way to get to the Czech town and where the best places were to eat, drink and stay.

And in a gesture of thanks, big-hearted Boro fans have paid for the Banik supporter and his 12-year-old son, Jan, to come over for tomorrow's game.

Boro fan Chris Turner said: "It is incredible that he has done so much for people he has never even met. He has really gone out of his way to help us out.

"When he said he could not come to the Boro leg of the game, we were all gutted for him and someone suggested a whip-round, and I took up the challenge."

Grateful supporters have raised nearly £400 to bring Mr Janek to Teesside, and they are promising to show him the delights of the region.

At first their Czech friend declined the offer but, on changing his mind, he posted his appreciation for the gesture on his website.

He said: "When I realised that you found my web-page helpful for you, I was happy.

"And this feeling of happiness, as well as your kindness and friendship, was recompensing me enough for my effort.

"This is our first time in Europe and we are desperate that it goes well, that we enjoy our trips away and that we leave a good impression.

"This will certainly help."

The website is at http:// boro.virt.cz