Whitehaven Amateurs have raised £8,500 in just over 24 hours from a social media appeal following flood damage to their all-weather pitch.
Last week’s floods in West Cumbria had left serious problems with a large crease in the surface.
President Billy Robson said: “Unfortunately it wasn’t covered by the insurance because we are in a flood risk area. Mind you, it’s the first time it’s happened in 20 years of the pitch being laid.
“We tried the FA but no funds were available and other requests for financial assistance were unsuccessful.
“To an amateur club like ourselves £8,500 is a massive haul in our finances.
“But early on Monday morning an appeal was put out on social media via a Just Giving page and this morning we reached our target. It is amazing.”
He admitted to being a bit emotional about it all, as it had followed a very special club reunion on Saturday in memory of his late father Billy Robson senior, the driving force behind the club in its formative years.
It had started as Haig Colliery, was then Marchon and evolved into Whitehaven Amateurs, currently members of the West Lancashire League.
“We had a great day with a lot of lads who played for us over the years coming along to remember dad and see how the club has developed.
“I’m not a follower of social media, but most often all you get from some keyboard warriors is flak and criticism whatever you try to do.
“But this is the contrast, the good that social media can do. It’s amazing and makes you realise why people put their time and effort into clubs like ours – when help comes like this.
“On behalf of Whitehaven Amateurs I’d just like to say a heartfelt thanks to all those who have contributed.”
