Whipping boys Durham City finally broke their duck last week – and Avenue chief executive Bob Blackburn has more good news for them.

The UniBond Premier Division side had lost 28 out of 28 games – including a 7-0 thrashing from the Horsfall side last month – but finally won their first match last Saturday and followed that with another win in midweek.

And Blackburn was so impressed by the attitude of the Durham outfit that he has offered to sponsor their kit for next season.

When their backers pulled out, the club drafted in players from a local college that have played for nothing all season.

Blackburn said: “We all know the situation with them, no money and no experienced players. But, I have to say I was in awe of their resilience and enthusiasm.

“The players have been getting beaten heavily week in, week out but they still play the game in the right spirit. There is never any frustration creeping in and not so much as one bad tackle.

“The people in the background were also superb, very friendly, very welcoming and hospitable. In fact, they are the perfect hosts no matter what the result.”

“When they came to our place I had a nice afternoon because they are lovely people who enjoy their football and love their club. It was expected that we should beat them but everyone, even the players, were the same when they went home as they were when they arrived.

“I provided them with a couple of crates of ale for their journey back. I know their players don’t get paid for playing so I wanted to let them have a beer or two and they were thankful.

“At their place I gave their chairman some money and asked him to treat them to a drink or some fish and chips. The Durham players are so honest it is hard not to respect them and be impressed by their outlook."

Blackburn added: “I made the offer of sponsoring their kit for next season because they are such a good club that they don’t deserve to be struggling.

“My company, Kelvic Construction, will provide them with the backing for their gear next year if they accept. I feel it is the least I can do.”