Exiled Darlo fan David Lippett has invested in the club from Houston, Texas. He swopped e mails with Ray Simpson.

How long have you been supporting Darlo? What was your first game?

I have been supporting Darlo for over 30 years. My first game was a fundraiser against an all star Southampton team in the summer of 1982, which my Uncle took me to. I started going regularly from 1985 after an entertaining FA Cup game against Telford Utd.

When did you go to the States? Where do you live in the States?

I moved to the US ten years ago. I left Darlington in the late '90's to go to university and then I lived down south for a few years so followed Darlo away from home more often than visiting Feethams and the Arena. I live in Houston, Texas with my wife and 11 year old son, who is primarily a Reading FC fan but can claim to have seen Darlo play more recently than me - his Grandad took him to see them play a couple of years ago.

How do you follow the club now?

On Twitter and sometimes over the internet radio. It is brilliant how people around the club are providing so much news and facilities for us exiles to keep in touch - it is very much appreciated!

Why did you want to invest in the club?

I don't get back to the UK very often these days - I haven't seen Darlo play since they left the town, so I haven't contributed meaningfully and this is a chance to put that right. I have been impressed by the way the local fans have rallied around and not only saved the club, but have helped build it into something new, sustainable and in my view, better than it was.

What does it mean for you personally for the club to return to the town?

I have so many great memories of Feethams when I was growing up and of the club being an important part of my childhood. The fantastic highs and, let's face it, the more frequent crushing lows that must have taught me something about life, only happened because there was a club in my town. I would like to think that kids growing up in Darlington today and in the future can have similar experiences and have something that will connect them with their town for the rest of their lives, wherever they end up. The club can only grow its fan base if it is based in the town. The attendances at Heritage Park have been quite amazing, so there is plenty of hope for getting even better support at Blackwell Meadows.

Thanks, David, for investing in the club.

Do you want to buy shares in the club? Then follow this link.

http://darlingtonfc.co.uk/fundraising-campaign-details