Bernard Buys Durham City

By Dan King - Newcastle United Digital Editor

Former Magpies defender Olivier Bernard has bought non-league side Durham City.

The French full-back, who had two spells at St. James' Park, still lives in the North-East having retired six years ago.

And he has become the owner and chairman of the Citizens, currently ninth in the Northern League first division.

Bernard's first spell came between 2000 and 2005 before he joined Southampton and Rangers.

He returned to Tyneside in 2006 but failed to make an appearance following several injuries.

Bernard wants his new club to produce local players and establish links with Newcastle, as well as Sunderland and Middlesbrough.

Photograph courtesy of Robin Palmer