From the 1860s, amateur football had been played on the site, but it was only in 1883 that Darlington F.C., a professional side made Feethams their home - and so it was for 120 years.

Due to small attendances at the new arena, rumours spread that it could be sold and Darlington could return to Feethams.

[4] However, in 2009 the Board sold the football field to Esh Developments,[5][6] which on-sold the land in 2013 to Persimmon Homes.

That match also saw the ground obtain the distinction of having the largest sightscreen in first-class cricket – the back of the Tin Shed was painted a light blue to help batsmen see the ball more easily.

The ground itself was a typical lower-league affair with terraces and benches providing the majority of accommodation for the spectators.