Junior footballers from the Stockton West End Under 9s squad have got the cost of kit and equipment wrapped up thanks to a £1,000 donation from Persimmon Homes.

The squad applied to Persimmon Homes Teesside’s Community Champions fund and have scored one of two £1,000 awards being made this month. They will use the cash to fund playing kit, coats and equipment.

Stuart Honeyman, who made the application on behalf of the squad, which plays in the Russell Foster League, said: “This is fantastic news. We have been fundraising, and we are a great team, just looking for a little help.”

“This donation is going to have positive impact on our team.”

Kevin Thubron, director in charge of Persimmon Homes Teesside, said: “It is a pleasure to support the squad in this way. It is great to foster an interest in sport at an early age and we wish the Under 9s well.”

“This is exactly what our Community Champions scheme is all about, supporting good causes and volunteers who give their time to support their communities.”

“We always receive so many applications for our Community Champions initiative. I really encourage any charities and groups looking for funding to apply to the scheme for their chance to receive up to £1,000 match-funding for their own cause.”

Each month the Thornaby-based builder donates up to £2,000 to community groups across the region. This also happens across Persimmon’s other 31 operating areas, meaning up to £64,000 is dished out every single month – a total of £768,000 a year.

To find out more about the Persimmon Homes Community Champions scheme and to make an application please visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity