THE Spennymoor Sunday League has yet again rewarded its members by paying all Durham FA affiliation fees for the forthcoming season.

And the forward-thinking league has also taken the unique approach of paying all Public Liability cover for the 24 teams that completed the 2002-03 campaign.

Durham FA is strongly urging all clubs to take out the cover due to the hike in the number of claims over recent years.

On top of that, due to the generosity of the league, officials have also decided to reward teams with a brand new Mitre Multiplex football each.

"This just underlines the league's reputation as one of the most innovative and well organised in the region," said Secretary Mike Hill.

"Each club is benefiting to the tune of more than £50. As far as we're aware, this is unique to this region, if not the country.

"Unlike many leagues, we do not re-claim these fees back from our members. We are here for them and that is why we are taking, and will continue to take this approach."

It is now the third season in a row in which the Spennymoor Sunday League has paid its members' FA affiliation fees.

Meanwhile, the next league meeting will take place at Spennymoor United's Brewery Field club house on Wednesday, August 6.

The 2003-04 season kicks off on Sunday, August 17. As well as the usual Sunday fixtures, there will be two mid-week games in Division One (Tuesdays August 19 and 26) and there'll be three mid-week games in Division Two (Thursdays August 21, 28 and September 4).