THE opening of Darlington Football Club's town centre shop has been put back a week to ensure that it is fully stocked.

The club had intended to open the outlet, in the Queen Street Shopping Centre, today.

Instead, it will welcome its first customers on Monday next week, and will stock a wide range of first-team clothing, including the team's new home kits, tracksuits and wet weather tops.

Sue Benson, who has been working match days in the shop at the club's stadium, will move to the new store as a full-time employee.

Other part-time employees will take on extra shifts to accommodate the new outlet.

Shirley Foster, head of commercial at Darlington Football Club, said: "We have delayed the opening of the new shop by one week to ensure that the full range of merchandise is available from day one.

"The town centre location will make it even easier for fans to purchase the wider and more varied range of products, which is now available.

"The design of the new home shirt was chosen by the fans and we have had very positive feedback since the kit was launched.

"We expect demand to be high as fans buy their shirts for the summer holidays as well as to show support for the team in what promises to be an exciting new season."