BEING a lifelong Darlington fan I never believed the team would be where it is today.

Yes, at times playing in the fourth tier of English football may not have been glamorous, but today the local derby with Hartlepool United seem such a long time ago.

That said, many Quakers fans are thoroughly enjoying our Northern League adventure.

Being within travelling distance of virtually every home and away game is a welcome change .

The friendly atmosphere, which has been apparent on our travels, is something only found at this level of football.

We have been welcomed by all so far this season, despite one or two unsavoury incidents, which I think should be expected with the number of travelling fans.

Hopefully, the West Auckland game will follow suit on November 10 and won’t just become a farce about the price of a ticket.

Of course, the club needs to be back in Darlington and at a higher level as soon as possible.

But for now, even if hopefully only for one season, it is a nice change to be at Heritage Park rather than at the stadium that George built.

Simon Hahn, Darlington.