Two West Midlands football teams have each netted a cash boost from a regional housebuilder to help them provide sporting fun for local youngsters.

Penkridge Football Club and Wrens Nest FC each received £1,000 from Persimmon Homes West Midlands thanks to its Community Champions scheme, which has run since 2015.

Charities, clubs and groups that work with their local communities can benefit from the scheme with two grants of up to £1,000 available every month in the region.

Persimmon Homes West Midlands is currently providing new homes in Penkridge at Lyne Hill Meadow, and believes it is important to support the communities where it builds.

Shaun Oakden, manager of Penkridge FC, said: “We are a charter standard community local football club, which aims to provide a place for local footballers to play, providing a platform for the next generation to express themselves. We are delighted to have been supported by Persimmon Homes West Midlands in this way.”

Steven Lynex, spokesman for Wrens Nest FC, said the donation would make a huge difference to the club, as they desperately need funds for new equipment.

He added: “In this part of Dudley, there are very few facilities for young children. Therefore, we started the football club for all ages, gender and abilities. Our aim is to keep the children off the streets and give them a place of belonging and build teamwork and self-belief.

“We have grown and now have more than 200 children attending every week from ages four through to adults. We fundraise to support the club and do not take any money from the children or their parents, and everyone who helps is a volunteer. We are very grateful to Persimmon Homes for its support.”

David Greengrass, head of sales for Persimmon Homes West Midlands, said: “Grassroot sports is incredibly important for local communities, so we are delighted to be able to support these two football clubs in this way.”

To find out more information Community Champions visit: https://www.persimmonhomes.com/community-champions.