Some work is still going on at the stadium

For the past four years, the Neasham Road Action Group has complained to Darlington Borough Council, over a series of issues, including parking provision at the Reynold's Stadium.

The action group have asked for the local government ombudsman to be brought in to settle the row.

But Darlington chairman George Reynold's has dismissed objections, and says they �25m stadium is good news for the County Durham market town.

The 27,500 capacity stadium opened to fans for Darlington's home game against Kidderminster Harriers on Saturday - with only 11,000 seats available because work is still going on.

Darlington lost the match 2-0.

Mr Reynolds said: "When I took over I promised to pay off the debts and that is what I did.

Brisk business

"I promised a new stadium and here it is. It's not for me because I can't take it with me.

"People ask me how we will fill it. They said that about Sunderland and Newcastle and Middlesbrough and they managed.

"They said it about Rushden and Diamonds and they have had no problems.

"I am very jittery at the minute. I have had sleepless nights, but I hope I get a good night's sleep before the game, because I will be more stressed than the players come Saturday."

Tony Davison, of the club's commercial department, added: "Business has been brisk. We have had queues out of the door every day this week and expect it to continue like this until the big kick off."