Donations save Willenhall Town FC from folding

Willenhall Town FC has raised more than the £2,500 needed to see through the remainder of this season. But the club is not out of the woods yet as it still requires more funding for future seasons.

Simon Hall, chair of the club, said they were 'delighted' and thanked the Express & Star for being 'pivotal' in the fundraising campaign.

"We are delighted with how the campaign has gone. It is all positive stuff, he said.

"We're not out the woods yet but we are a hell of a lot safer in moving towards safety than we have been previously. It doesn't matter if it's a fiver or £500 whatever people can afford is great and they become a part of the whole journey.

"I'm feeling more confident about the future. We can pay off the remainder that is owed for this season and move into the territory of next season now."

Less than a week ago, a week's donations of £460 took the total to £1,170 but several bumper sponsors and a host of other generous inputs have taken it to £2,727, smashing the initial target.

Among them are businesses Ye Olde Toll House in Walsall Street who backed the campaign with a £500 sponsorship and W.H. Marren with £300.

It comes after fans from as far as California have pledged money to help save the 62-year-old club.

Mr Hall added: "The battle for survival continues but if we can finish this season safely that's great.

"What we're trying to do now is make sure we've got the funding next season. The closer we get to the £5,000 total the better. The ground rent and league fees are the biggest costs, it means we can start the season with a clean slate. If we can put our rent fees up front it takes a lot of pressure off the other payments."

Over the last five years the club has reduced outgoings by 65 per cent with measures such as Mr Halls wife doing the club's laundry and catering.

To support the Lockmen go to www.gofundme.com/5dvnequ4 or call 07901 560 691.