Darlington manager Dave Penney has given Quakers a lift by signing a new two-year contract which will keep him at the club until June 2011.Penney has led Quakers to third in League Two after taking over in October 2006 and is now looking forward to moulding his squad for the future.

He told the Northern Echo: "I am thoroughly enjoying working at Darlington and believe that we are building a team and a football club that the town can be proud of.

"I have had the opportunity to shape the squad and bring in my own players and we are in a great position to push for promotion in the second half of the season.

"The chairman (George Houghton) has been very supportive and I am delighted that I will have the chance to achieve his aims for the club. I am looking forward to the challenges ahead."

Houghton added: "I have worked very hard to bring stability to this football club, both on and off the pitch and I am delighted that Dave Penney has accepted my offer of an extended contract.

"Dave's ambition matches that of this football club and I will continue to give him all the support and backing he needs to bring long-awaited success to Darlington."

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