The future of Darlington Football Club was safeguarded today after creditors voted to accept a last-ditch rescue package.

The holders of just over 88 per cent of the Quakers' debts voted in favour of a company voluntary arrangement proposed by the club's new owners, the Sterling Consortium.

Former chairman George Reynolds performed a U-turn and backed the proposal after striking a deal with Sterling last week.

Darlington Supporters' Trust hailed the outcome as a long-awaited positive development and said it was keen to open talks with Sterling to see how fans could be involved in the running of the Quakers.