THE threat to Darlington Football Club is very real. The Quakers remain in grave danger of going out of business after 120 years.

Earlier this month, The Northern Echo revealed that administrators were minded to close the club by February unless enough money was raised to pay salaries and other costs.

Since then, the local community has responded magnificently to the Quakers' fight for survival.

The club's immediate future has been secured thanks to last Sunday's tremendous response to David Hodgson's all-stars matches, which attracted a crowd of 14,200 and raised more than £100,000.

The Northern Echo's appeal to companies, organisations and individuals to sponsor a minute of today's game at home to Rochdale has also inspired generous support.

But that is just the short-term. The long-term survival of the club depends on continued support which will again demonstrate to potential bidders that Darlington is a club worth investing in.

That is why it is so important to turn out and support Darlington today when the Quakers play Rochdale.

Another big crowd to follow on from last Sunday's memorable occasion will ensure that the momentum continues and that the club still has a fighting chance.

Don't leave it until it is too late - the Quakers need you.