RIDING Mill looks set to have a senior football team next season.

Local resident Mark Robinson has set up the brand new Riding Mill FC, and is currently in discussions with the Northumberland FA and the Hexham & District Sunday league.

If the new team is successfully affiliated, it will begin life in local Sunday football’s second division in August.

The team will play its home matches at Riding Mill Sports Club, and 33-year-old Mark can’t wait to get started.

He said: “I’ve got 25 players wanting to join us. There is already a lot of enthusiasm for football at Riding Mill, and we are planning to start training sessions in early June.”

The former Haydon Bridge Anchor player only moved to Riding Mill last summer, but quickly discovered an opportunity he couldn’t resist.

“Almost immediately I saw the football pitch at the sports club,” said Mark. “It’s currently in very good condition and the facilities here are excellent.

“It was a like a light bulb went off. I thought there is potential for football here if there is enough interest from within Riding Mill and surrounding communities.

“This part of the district should be represented in the local football scene, and I couldn’t let the opportunity pass by.”

Mark has already splashed out over £700 in essential equipment, including strips and training gear, footballs, goal nets, pegs and corner flags.

He’s even invested in slalom poles in a determined effort to maximise training sessions, and designed the new club’s logo himself.

He added: “I think it can be a success, and I want to have a go at running the new football club.

“I’m hoping to set high standards and have lots of exciting ideas. I want it to be a well run operation, but also somewhere for people to come along, play football and enjoy themselves.”

Mark said he had received the support of the sports club, which is home to the village’s cricket team, and is also used by junior footballers.

He has also been backed by Broomhaugh and Riding Parish Council, and other Sunday league club managers.

“There is a lot to think about when setting up a new team,” said Mark, and we are seeking a sponsor.”

For more information, and to contact Mark, visit the Riding Mill Football Club page on Facebook.