A FORMER footballer has set up a new physiotherapy clinic in Bishop Auckland.

Drew Coverdale, who played for Darlington and Middlesbrough, opened Auckland Physiotherapy Centre in the town's North Bondgate earlier this month.

Mr Coverdale made almost 50 appearances for The Quakers between 1988 and 1991.

He studied as a physiotherapist during his playing days and has opened the new centre following the success of his clinic in Norton, near Stockton, which opened last year.

He said: "At Darlington, Brian Little was the manager and asked if I wanted to do a physiotherapy course in case the football didn't work out."

He has worked in hospitals, including Bishop Auckland General Hospital, before branching out on his own.

"The football side helps with all the sports injuries," he said. "People like to know they're seeing someone who has experience of that kind of thing."

To make an appointment, call 01388-665818