Durham County FA Statement on the ‘Frank Pattision’ Durham Challenge Cup Final:
Durham County FA Frank Pattison Challenge Cup Final:
Shildon AFC v Stockton Town FC
Bishop Auckland FC (Heritage Park)
Tuesday 14th April 2026 Kick Off 7.30PM
The above prestigious County Cup Final was scheduled to be played on Tuesday 14th April 2026 at Sunderland AFC, Stadium of Light.
On Wednesday 1st April 2026 the Durham County FA were notified by Sunderland AFC that as their Under 21s had beaten Watford in the Premier League Cup Quarter Final on the 6th March 2026 and the Semi Final is to be played on Wednesday 15th April 2026, the DCFA Frank Pattison Challenge Cup Final could not be played on the 14th April 2026.
This obviously was a massive blow, not only to Durham County FA, the two competing teams, their directors and supporters, the match officials and to grassroots football as over 1,300 tickets had been sold and the club will begin the process of reimbursing those who have paid.
With just over twelve days to the final a lot of work and meetings have taken place and with the possibility of both Shildon AFC and Stockton Town FC being involved in League Play-Offs it was agreed that we aim to keep the final on the original date.
A further meeting took place between all parties yesterday and we are delighted to announce that Bishop Auckland FC have provided Heritage Park to host the final on the agreed date of Tuesday 14th April 2026.
The Stadium of Light is obviously everyone’s preferred venue but for the reason above that cannot happen.
Supporters will only be admitted if they have a ticket valid for the rearranged date and venue. Tickets are, Adults £10.00 and concessions (over 60 and under 16s) £5.00, wheelchair users will be free and any carer will pay £5.00
Due to the change in venue tickets will be limited and can be purchased by using the following link from 3.00pm today, 7th April 2026.