Spartans flag flying high!

Blyth Spartans’ colours are flying proudly again alongside the Royal Navy’s famous White Ensign on HMS Blyth!

Admirals gave the Sandown Class Minehunter permission to run up the Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division club’s flag, pictured, after Blyth sent out a new one to replace the weather worn version the ship has been using since teaming up with the club and supporters.

HMS Blyth is currently in the Mediterranean training on NATO exercises and the ship’s captain Tim Davey says the crews' football team has had better luck than former manager Tommy Cassidy who walked the 'managerial plank' earlier this month after his side’s mixed fortunes on the pitch.

Proudly wearing Blyth’s kit, the Royal Navy vessel’s sailors and marines triumphed in a tournament over their NATO counterparts from across Europe after their joint exercises.

Spartans General Manager Ian Evans said the club is honoured by their long association with HMS Blyth.

"Anyone connected with the club will be only too aware of our long standing relationship with HMS Blyth with the crew visiting Croft Park on many occasions," he said.

"We’re very proud and honoured that our club flag is flying high while our brave troops are on duty and we hope to see the crew back at Croft Park in the not too distant future."