Famous five go for goal

Visually-impaired footballers from South Tyneside are on track for a national title.

The five-a-side team - based at Bolingbroke Hall, South shields - is made up of visually-impaired footballers from around the North East.

They play in the only league in the country for footballers with sight problems. but this means they have to travel long distances for matches.

But their title challenge has been given a major boost by Inter-City Cross Country, who have agreed to sponsor their rail travel during the season.

Organiser Lee Cawkwell said: "We're delighted. It'Il make our travel arrangements much easier."

The team has just been promoted to the National Division One after finishing second in Division Two last season.

Lee said: "We are in with a shout." "With a bit of luck, we could do well. but it's a very strong division."

Their first match is a cup tie in Weston-super-Mare on Saturday.

The team includes players from Sunderland and Newcastle, but most come from South Tyneside.