THE football team that made history when it became the first winner of the World Cup has been given a boost of almost £20,000.

Players and fans at West Auckland Football Club are reaping the benefits of new turnstiles, terracing and public address system thanks to the grant from the Football Stadia Improvement Fund.

The latest refurbishment complements other work that has been undertaken at the ground, which includes the opening of a social club in 2000, and new dressing rooms and showers.

General manager Stuart Alderson said the final touches were put to the latest scheme last week.

He said: "We have done a lot of improvements to the ground and people often say how smart the ground is at West Auckland.

"We could not have done any of this if it had not been for the Football Foundation. They have been fantastic.

"If it wasn't for them giving clubs like us money, nobody could afford to make improvements to their grounds. It is expensive to run a football club like this these days.''

Bishop Auckland MP Derek Foster visited the football ground yesterday to present a cheque for £18,692 to Mr Alderson on behalf of the Football Stadia Improvement Fund.

Mr Foster said he was impressed with the improvements the club had made to the ground.

He said: "I commend the Football Foundation. It is doing a super job in supporting local football clubs in their efforts to update their grounds.

"I also commend the club for the way they have spent the money.''

Peter Lee, chief executive of fund and the Football Foundation, said: "It is essential for the future of the game that clubs such as West Auckland continue to reap the benefit of the largest ever funding package for non-league football.

"Our sincere congratulations go to all concerned with the club for their hard work and dedication in securing this money, which will provide fans with new facilities, fit for the game in the 21st Century.''