Junior football team embarks on toughest test yet with backing from Bellway

A junior football team from County Durham is playing in brand-new kit sponsored by local housebuilder Bellway Durham as it embarks on one of the toughest seasons in its history.

Hetton Juniors U14 Inter are taking on the significant challenge of competing a year above their age group, with a predominantly under-13 squad playing at under-14 level, after completing a league and cup double in the last campaign.

The team’s 15-strong squad will be taking to the field in new match and training kit purchased for the 2026-27 season thanks to a £1,000 donation from Bellway Durham.

Formed in 2019, the team will compete in the Russell Foster Tyne & Wear Football League Under 14s Division 1, playing its home matches at Hetton Academy and facing opponents from across the region.

Graham Irving, Lead Coach for Hetton Juniors Inter, said: “The generosity of Bellway to sponsor our team is greatly appreciated. The donation has provided high-quality kit for the players, helping the team take to the playing field for the season ahead looking professional and prepared.  A new kit creates a strong sense of identity, pride and belonging, helping the players represent both their club and local community with confidence.

“Since the team was established in 2019, it has developed a strong reputation for nurturing young talent. Eight former players from the team have progressed to professional club academies and secured contracts with organisations including Newcastle United, Sunderland AFC and Middlesbrough FC.

“Sponsorship plays a significant role in grassroots sport, helping reduce costs for families and ensuring young players can focus on enjoying and developing through football. Our boys will take significant pride in showcasing the Bellway logo across the region with ownership of the new club kits.”

Founded in 1995, Hetton Juniors FC has grown into one of the largest grassroots football clubs in the region, with around 1,000 members and 60 teams providing footballing opportunities for boys and girls aged between two and 18.

Bellway Durham, part of national housebuilder Bellway, has its divisional head office in nearby Houghton-le-Spring and is building new homes at developments across County Durham and Teesside.

Frank Lincoln, Managing Director of Bellway Durham, said: “At Bellway Durham, we have a proud track record of supporting grassroots sporting organisations which play such a vital role in their local communities. As well as giving players the opportunity to develop their footballing abilities, Hetton Juniors FC provides a safe and inclusive environment in which young people can learn valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, respect and confidence.

“We applaud the ambition and desire of the Hetton Juniors U14 Inter squad for testing themselves against older opposition and wish them all the best for what I’m sure will be a challenging yet extremely rewarding season.”

For more information about Bellway developments across the region, visit https://www.bellway.co.uk/new-homes/durham/.