ON the Western coast of the United States, sports fans could be forgiven for taking greater interest in the fortunes of the San Francisco 49ers than the plight of a lowly soccer club in the North-East of England.

While Darlington supporters have battled to raise awareness of their fund-raising campaign throughout Britain, news of the Quakers' troubles was hardly expected to raise eyebrows on the other side of the Atlantic.

But, thanks to the efforts of exiled former Darlington star Alan Sproates, the fight to save the club from extinction is now the talk of the town in San Rafael, California.

Incredibly, more than 200 people are due to turn out for a fund-raising night there next month.

Proceeds from the night will boost the coffers of Darlington Supporters' Trust, which is aiming to raise £250,000 by the end of March to help keep the ailing Quakers afloat.

And Sproates will not be the only North-East representative there - he is planning to fly old friend Bobby Kerr, Sunderland's 1973 FA Cup winning captain, out to America to lend his support.

Sproates, a hero of Darlington's 1966 promotion-winning side, has already sent a cheque for £1,000 to the trust.

He left to coach in the States over 25 years ago - after making 346 appearances for Darlington - but has kept close watch on the club's decline in fortunes.

"Everyone I've spoken with is intending to support the trust's efforts to help save the club. Everybody's putting the word out," he said.

"It's great to see everybody pulling together - the team, past and present, the community and the fans. Let's hope we all can save the club for everyone to enjoy for generations to come."

"Sproates and his American-born wife Bonnie became involved with the trust last year, when former stars met up for a reunion at Feethams.

Trust secretary Peter Ashmore said: "We're very grateful for this support from Alan and Bonnie.

"It really shows the depth of feeling that players and fans have for the club in this crisis, whatever the distance."

About £15,000 has already been raised for the trust. The club is in administration and has debts of about £20m.