It was made by two members of Northallerton Men’s Shed, Peter Mills and Martin Dunn, who developed a design suggested by the Club’s Vice-Chairman and Commercial Manager, Peter Durrans.

“We looked on this as a bit of a challenge,” said Mr Mills, a retired engineer. “We had some spare wood and gradually the plinth took shape.”

Mr Dunn, a retired quantity surveyor, added: “It was a team effort we really enjoyed getting involved with and we’re pleased to see the plinth being put to such good use by Northallerton Town.”

The plinth, which is resplendent with the Northallerton club badge, is believed to be one of the first of its kind in the Ebac Northern League. It was a proud moment for the craftsmen when it was used for the first time against Easington, the referee plucking the ball from its holder ahead of kick-off.

Town’s Peter Durrans said: “It gives matchdays an extra panache and it’s something you see regularly in the Premier League and top European games. What better way to thank our match-ball sponsors who give us such loyal support every season.”

Northallerton Men’s Shed is a registered charity that has around 80 male members and around 25 female members. It is active on weekdays within buildings at Northallerton Auction Mart.

For further information, please see their website: Northallerton Men's Shed