New grassroots club Heywood Hurricanes FC appeals for raffle prizes to keep football free for every child

A brand-new grassroots football club in Heywood is appealing to local businesses for raffle prizes as it works to keep the game affordable for every child who wants to play.

Heywood Hurricanes FC has been set up with what it calls one simple goal: to make football accessible for every child. The club says every young player deserves the opportunity to enjoy football, make friends, build confidence and be part of a team - regardless of their family's financial circumstances.

Rather than leaning on sponsorship from the outset, the club is trying to raise funds itself. "As a brand-new club, we're under no illusion that sponsorships are easy to come by," the Hurricanes said. "We know local businesses receive lots of requests, and we completely understand that not everyone is in a position to help financially."

Over the coming weeks the club will hold a raffle to help ease the financial burden on its families and keep costs as low as possible for players. It is asking whether any local businesses would be willing to donate a prize - a voucher, gift hamper, experience, service, or anything else. Every donation, big or small, the club says, will make a genuine difference.

The appeal comes at a time when many families are struggling with the cost of children's sport. Subs, kit, boots and travel add up quickly, and money is increasingly the reason children drop out of the game. By fundraising to keep its own costs down, the Hurricanes hope no child in Heywood is priced off the pitch.

"Your generosity will help us provide opportunities for children to play the game they love without additional financial pressure on their parents, especially at a time when many families are finding things incredibly tough," the club said.

Anyone who would like to support Heywood Hurricanes, or who knows someone who might be able to help, can get in touch by messaging the club's Facebook page.