THE new owners of Darlington Football Club's stadium yesterday sent out a clear message to fans that the George Reynolds' era was over.

On another remarkable day in the Quakers' extraordinary recent history, the giant Reynolds Arena signs were pulled down from the south side of the £20m venue.

The furious ex-chairman described the move by the Sterling Consortium, the financiers who bought the stadium earlier this month, as "a kick in the teeth".

But long-suffering supporters last night told of their hopes that the symbolic gesture would be the start of a new era for the club, which remains in administration with crippling debts.

The April 22 deadline set by creditors for the Quakers to come out of administration or face liquidation was allowed to pass yesterday to allow discussions to continue.

The removal of the signs attracted local and national media, with radio and television crews descending on the ground throughout the day.

Mr Reynolds, who saw his dream move to the Neasham Road ground turn sour when the club plunged into administration, said: "It's disgusting, an absolute disgrace.

"It's the finest stadium in Europe for the third division. No, it's the finest in the world. They have killed the hen that laid the golden egg."

But Darlington Supporters' Trust, which has 1,300 members, urged fans to stay positive and get behind the Quakers in their remaining games.

A spokesman said: "It's another step in taking the football club forward - highly symbolic for many supporters."

A new name has yet to be agreed, but it is understood that Sterling will be seeking corporate sponsorship.

Sterling is reluctantly attempting to take over the Quakers in a bid to protect its investment in the stadium, but needs to reach an agreement with Mr Reynolds, the largest creditor. No settlement has yet been thrashed out.

Sterling loaned £3.9m to Mr Reynolds to help finish the stadium, supported by a personal guarantee from him. It has since called in that guarantee and, when it did not get the money, issued a bankruptcy petition. The hearing resumes in Newcastle next month.

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