THE story of the world’s first black professional footballer, whose career started in the North-East, will be celebrated in a series of events.

The Heritage Lottery Fund has given £117,000 to the Football Unites, Racism Divides (Furd) campaign to honour Arthur Wharton.

Wharton’s footballing career started in Darlington. His performances led to The Northern Echo calling for him to play for England, saying he was a player “who is undoubtedly deserving of a place in any international team”.

It was not until 1978 that Viv Anderson became the first black England player.

Wharton’s story has attracted a number of campaigns, including Furd’s and Shaun Campbell, head of the Arthur Wharton Foundation, based in Darlington.

Mr Campbell is in the process of raising funds for a statue in honour of Wharton.

He also talks in schools, sports clubs and other organisations to promote Wharton’s story. He said: “It is fantastic news. I am really pleased that the story and our campaign has elevated the name of Arthur Wharton.

“This little campaign in Darlington has significantly raised the awareness and his profile.

“It aids and abets all other people and organisations who want to bring his name to the fore. That is our duty and responsibility and, wherever possible, to impact on people through an educational message.”

He said he was looking forward to working with Furd to further tell Wharton’s story.

Wharton was born in the Gold Coast, now Ghana, but moved to England in 1882 to train as a Methodist missionary.

He was a multi-talented sportsman, who broke the 100- yard world record in 1886.

His football career started in Darlington as a goalkeeper.

His performances attracted the interest of Preston North End – then the country’s best side – where he became the world’s first black professional.

The money will be spent on activities including a proposed film, drama workshops, a travelling exhibition, a Victorian sports day, teaching packs and an interactive website.

Howard Holmes, director of Furd, based in Sheffield, said: “Furd has championed the incredible sporting life of Arthur Wharton for many years, but there is still so much that remains hidden.”

Fiona Spiers, head of the Heritage Lottery Fund for Yorkshire and the Humber, said: “There are many gaps in the knowledge we have about Arthur Wharton, and the material is currently scattered across several archives.

“This grant will enable his remarkable story to be preserved while offering many people the chance to gain valuable skills in the process.”