A community-run football club has pledged to use a new cash donation to ‘maintain as much normality as possible’ for young players facing very unusual times.

Cumnor Minors FC, based in Oxford, has been awarded £1,000 from Persimmon Homes North London after applying through the Community Champions scheme. Every month, two community-based organisations in each of its UK regions receives a donation to support its local activities.

The latest award will fund much-needed football kits, balls and goals for a club hit very hard by the pandemic, according to Under-9s manager Mark Crabtree: “The area has been greatly affected by Covid and this fabulous donation will help ensure everyone can play in a safe, nurturing and rewarding environment. We rely on the support of volunteers to offer football, fun and fitness to young people. We have boys and girls teams in most junior age groups and strive to develop a positive atmosphere for them all to thrive. In such difficult times it means so much to maintain some normality and freedom for these youngsters.”

On behalf of Persimmon Homes North London, deputy managing director Karl Endersby said: “The impact of the pandemic has been felt by all age groups in society. Here in Oxford we were approached by a community club that is doing its utmost to give youngsters an opportunity to play football, develop their fitness and have great fun. This is precisely the kind of initiative we try to support through our Community Champions programme, and Cumnor Minors are extremely worthy recipients.”

For more information visit Community Champions.