THORNTON le Dale Under 12s have come back from the brink to be crowned Scarborough Minor League champions.

After a highly competitive campaign, Dale defeated title holders West Pier twice, only losing once across the course of the season on their way to the title.

That achievement is made all the more remarkable as the club was in danger of having to withdraw from the league, having lost players to other clubs or moving up a year.

However, in stepped local parents Ben Robinson and Daz Ellis, whose sons both play for the side.

The pair took over as coaching, where they were able to recruit additional players and ensure that the local village side were able to continue.

Having already exceeded all early expectations with their league title win, the new-look side are also in contention for a place in the League Cup final at Scarborough Athletic’s Flamingo Land Stadium.

Ellis enthused: “We can’t put into words how proud we are of this group of lads. Having come together in July their development and team spirit has been second to none.

“Their league success is thoroughly deserved and it’s been a pleasure for Ben and I to see the lads get the rewards for their hard work.”