A community foundation set up to make a difference has marked a major milestone.
The Hornby Foundation has donated almost £360,000 since it was first launched – with two organisations recently celebrating a combined 25 years of support.
Ulverston Rangers Football Club and the Ulverston Otters Swimming Club have both benefitted from a decade of funding – with £50,000 pledged across both groups.
Paul Hornby, the managing director of JF Hornby & Co, which is behind the foundation, said: “We love our community. Nothing gives us greater joy than seeing the positive impact of the grants we distribute via the Hornby Foundation.
“We are fortunate to enjoy success as an accountancy firm, but that is only because we have the support of businesses in our communities. Giving back is an important part of what we do – I am always of the view that if we can, we should.
“The Otters and Ulverston Rangers have had such a positive impact on the lives of so many residents of all ages. I’m delighted that we have been able to support these unbelievably valuable community groups for the last 10 years.”
Ulverston Otters were formed in the 1970s and are based at the town’s leisure centre. Over the years, thousands of children and adults have honed their skills in the water under the tutelage of the volunteer instructors, with some going on to become national champions.
The club uses the grant money to subsidise fees, ensuring its sessions – which attract people from Grange to Barrow and Ulverston to Millom – are accessible to as many people as possible, regardless of their personal or family finances.
Club secretary Rosemary Jones said: “The club has significant running costs linked to the hire of the pool. The ongoing support we receive from the Hornby Foundation is invaluable. It allows us to reach as many people as possible, regardless of their personal financial situation.
“We are so incredibly grateful for the support of the team at JF Hornby. The grant funding they provide makes a real and positive difference.”
Ulverston Rangers FC was founded in 1945 and has a long and proud history in the town, with both youth and open age teams competing every week. Next season the club will celebrate 80 years of grassroots football.
For 14 years, the open age team – which is for players aged 16 and upwards – has looked the part in the latest kit on match days and during training, thanks to grants from the Hornby Foundation.
And with the squad travelling as far afield as Preston, Southport and Lytham to play their games in the West Lancashire league, appearance is key, says club treasurer, John Edwards.
He added: “When we are on the road for a fixture, we’re not just representing the club, but the town. Seeing the team travel to and arrive for fixtures in smart, matching kit is fantastic.
“The grant funding from the Hornby Foundation makes a huge different to team spirit, pride and togetherness. It means a great deal to have their continued support.”
Paul said: “We have been a part of this community for 25 years and we have taken so much joy since the foundation was established in supporting local clubs, charities, and community groups.
“Both clubs that we are celebrating our relationships with today make such a wonderful contribution to our sporting community, and it has been a pleasure to see them grow and thrive.”
