Football club secures future at Teesside Airport

A Teesside junior football club has secured its future after agreeing a long-term lease at its historic home ground.

Middleton Rangers FC has signed a five-year agreement with Teesside Airport, ensuring football continues to be played at the site behind the former St George Hotel.

The community club, which has almost 200 members, runs 17 boys’ and girls’ youth teams and has strong links to Middleton St George.

Football has been played at the ground for decades, with the site forming part of the airport’s history. 

Notably, the North Korea national team trained there ahead of its famous victory over Italy during the 1966 World Cup.

Club Chairman David Wase said: “This is absolutely huge for the future of our club. 

“Securing this agreement doesn’t just help us today – it protects and strengthens our facilities for years to come.

“It means we can now unlock significant grant funding, giving us the opportunity to develop the site properly, improve the pitches, enhance security, and invest in the equipment our players deserve.

“This is a real step forward in safeguarding the long‑term home of our club. 

“The airport has been excellent throughout the process and incredibly supportive. We couldn’t have asked for better partners.”

Phil Forster, managing director of Teesside Airport, added: “It’s brilliant we’ve been able to secure this agreement with the club to have the next generation of our region’s football talent playing on site.

“We want to support our local community – the airport wouldn’t survive without it. 

“The football club is a big part of Middleton St George and plays a vital role in bringing people together, developing young talent and creating a real sense of pride in the area.

“We’re proud to play our part in supporting that, and we look forward to seeing them continue to thrive and play here for many years to come.”

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